Let’s examine some of the major themes that surface in our readings for Palm Sunday of the Lord’s Passion.
1st Reading – Isaiah 50:4-7
This passage of the “Suffering Servant” is interpreted by the Church to apply directly to Jesus.
Note how it is written in the first person, from the Lord’s perspective, and points to the agony of the Passion.
Psalm – 22: 8-9,17-20,23-24
“My God, my God, why have you abandoned me?”
This Psalm offers a prophecy that is fulfilled with the Passion of the Lord.
I strongly suggest that we all read Psalm 22 repeatedly during Holy Week. For although it begins in anguish and suffering, it ends with a resounding praise of the glory of God.
2nd Reading – Philippians 2:6-11
Jesus humbly “empties himself” and takes on our human form in order to die on the Cross for our sins.
Because of this sacrifice, Jesus Christ is exalted above all creation, and we acknowledge him as Lord.
Gospel – Matthew 26:14-27:66
This is the great drama of God’s love for us!
Do yourself a favor and take time this week to slowly read and reflect on the Passion of our Lord. Seriously, just do it, and offer a prayer of gratitude for the sacrifice of Christ on the Cross.
Jesus responds to the scribes and speaks about the reality of evil in our world, inviting us to draw close to the Lord as we face the darkness in our lives.
The baptism of the Lord reveals the Trinity and unleashes the fountain of grace that configures us to Christ and the Church. May we live our baptismal call in the world today!
Let’s explore the themes we find in the Mass readings for the Baptism of the Lord.
1st Reading – Isaiah 42:1-4,6-7
The chosen servant has received the spirit of God and will bring forth justice.
The servant will establish a covenant with the people and bring light and healing to the nations.
Psalm – 29:1-4,9-10
“The Lord will bless his people with peace.”
We give glory and praise to God, who is enthroned as king forever.
2nd Reading – Acts of the Apostles 10:34-38
Peter speaks to the people in the house of Cornelius, saying that God shows no partiality.
He then recounts the basic facts about Jesus, inviting the people to fear God and act uprightly.
Gospel – Matthew 3:13-17
John the Baptist tries to prevent Jesus from being baptized by him, but the Lord directs him to allow it to fulfill all righteousness.
As Jesus is baptized, the Holy Spirit descends upon him in the form of a dove, and the voice of the Father proclaims, “This is my beloved Son; with whom I am well pleased.”
“Mary kept all these things, reflecting on them in her heart.” May the example of the Mother of God inspire us to pause and ponder how our faith directs our lives as we embark on a New Year.
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On this feast of the Holy Family of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph, we recognize that our families become blessed when we welcome Christ into our hearts and homes.
Three Great Things 