In Lutheran tradition, burning palm branches symbolizes the transition from the joyous celebration of Palm Sunday, where people welcomed Jesus triumphantly, to the somber reflection of Ash Wednesday, where the ashes from those burned palms are used as a reminder of human mortality and the need for repentance, highlighting the fickleness of human devotion and the contrast between praise and betrayal; essentially signifying that even the most enthusiastic celebrations can turn to ashes if not followed by true commitment to faith.
