There is an intensity in Mary Magdalene, Peter, and John as they run to discover what happened in the early morning hours of the resurrection. As events unfold they will rejoice with exultant faith that Jesus Christ is the Risen Lord!
As we hear the great proclamation of salvation history through the readings of this Easter Vigil, we wait upon the Lord with renewed hope and strength: Christ is alive!
We stand before the Cross of Christ and acknowledge the darkness in our hearts. This is what inspired the love of God the Father to send his Son, to shine with heavenly light upon our world and free us from our sins.
We celebrate the gift of the Eucharist that gives us strength to serve the Lord and one another. May the Body of Christ renew our bodies and transform our lives each and every day.
Every year we hear God’s great love story when we recall the Passion of Jesus. Rather than fall into the trap of forgetfulness, we remember what Christ has done for us so that we might be renewed to offer our lives for the Lord.
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.
St. Joseph never says a word in the Gospels; rather, he puts his faith in God into concrete action as he provides a home for Mary and Jesus. May his example inspire us to put our faith into daily practice.
The conversion of St. Paul reveals how God’s grace can transform our lives. Once an enemy of the Christian faith, Paul went on to become one of its greatest champions, and his New Testament letters continue to inspire disciples today.
Catholic Inspiration – Podcast Archives of Homilies & Talks
