Willingness

For to this you have been called, because Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in his steps. He committed no sin; no guile was found on his lips. When he was reviled, he did not revile in return; when he suffered, he did not threaten; but he trusted to him who judges justly.

He himself bore our sins in his body on the tree, that we might die to sin and live to righteousness. By his wounds you have been healed. For you were straying like sheep, but have now returned to the Shepherd and Guardian of your soul.

1 Peter 2: 21-25

Yesterday we began the holiest week of the Church calendar!

On Palm Sunday, the Sacred Scriptures invited us into Jesus’ triumphant entry into Jerusalem. *Matthew 21:1-11; Matthew 26:14-27:66. We heard shouts of “Hosanna,” (Save us,) as the people joyfully greet Our Lord, cheering and welcoming Him with palm branches.

What an interesting way of honoring the Messiah.

Did you notice how the King of Kings enters riding a colt?

This is not because they couldn’t find a fitting white stallion!

Jesus intentionally offers Himself in humility to show that His kingdom is not of this world. It is the procession of a king, the King of the Universe, but there are no trumpets, elegant garments, or signs of wealth. They cried out: “Hosanna! Blessed is the King who comes in the name of the Lord! Hosanna in the highest!” This is no ordinary entry: the King’s “red carpet” was made of capes and palm branches.

The palm branches carried then, and that we continue to carry each Palm Sunday, are meant to be a sign of peace and hope. The branches are also a sign that you have chosen to follow Jesus on the way. Most people take their blessed palm branches with them and place them somewhere prominent in their homes as a reminder that they have cheered and welcomed Jesus, our King, and followed Him to the cross.

Perhaps you too have placed a palm branch behind your crucifix, icon, or other important religious item in your home or office?

As we walk with Jesus all the way to Calvary, Our Lord invites each of us to enter this Holy Week with humility. Your willingness to follow Our Lord this week can lead you to surrender in obedience to God, which in turn, can lead to conversion and contrition for sins.

He himself bore our sins in his body on the tree, that we might die to sin and live to righteousness. By his wounds you have been healed.

1 Peter 2:24

The Easter Triduum, which begins on Holy Thursday and ends on Easter Sunday, is the most solemn and important time of the liturgical year. It celebrates the Paschal Mystery of Jesus Christ – His Passion, Death, and Resurrection. Let us keep each other in prayer as we live this Holy Week with grateful hearts for all Our Lord has done, is doing, and will do for us. May you celebrate the Easter Triduum in grace, understanding the love God has for us through His Son, Our Savior and the gift of the Holy Spirit always leading us to the fullness of life and love.

Dear Lord, I open my heart to You, offering every day and night to You in sacred surrender. I pray for the grace to accompany You in a special way this Holy Week, joining and offering the trials I encounter on our shared journey to the cross…and to a victorious hope. Amen.