Dear Brothers, Sisters and Friends in Christ, as we enter into this sacred week, this Holy Week, in which we pause to recall, reflect and remember the day's that led to the glorious celebration of the feast of the resurrection. Let us open our hearts and minds so that we may receive the abundance of grace that each day holds. Have a blessed Journey!
*Palm Sunday*
In ancient times, palm branches were a symbol of victory and triumph. They were often used to celebrate military victories or to welcome royalty. When Jesus rode into Jerusalem on a donkey in John 12, the crowds saw Him as a king, and they welcomed Him with palm branches as a symbol of His triumphal entry into the city.
While the people thought Jesus would be enthroned as their new king and rescue them from harsh Roman rule, the streets echoed with the word, Hosanna, which means “save us.” Yet Jesus intended to save them from a far greater enemy. Their sins.
The beautiful palm branches waving in the air represented more than a victory. They were a link to the Feast of Tabernacles and a familiar picture of God’s presence, a foreshadowing that Jesus would reside with and within those who love Him.
As we reflect on Palm Sunday, we can consider the way we welcome Jesus into our own lives.
Reflection:
Do we welcome Him as King, or do we sometimes push Him aside in favor of other things? Are we willing to follow Jesus wherever He leads us, or only when it is comfortable or convenient?
Let us pray:
Almighty and everlasting God, who, so that the human race might have an example of humility, hast made our Savior to take our flesh and undergo the Cross; graciously grant that we may deserve to have both the lessons of His patience and the fellowship of His resurrection. Through the same our Lord. Amen!