Following the miracle of raising Lazarus from the dead, the high priest Caiaphas prophesizes that “it is better that one man should die instead of the people” and reveals how the Lord saves us through his Passion and death on the Cross.
When we draw near to the Lord (in the Scriptures, Sacraments, Prayer, Fellowship, and Service) we are strengthened in faith and filled with God’s grace.
St. Joseph offers us a vibrant example of a quiet, faithful man who reveals his faith in God by his swift, immediate, and active response to the angel’s command. (#543)
Let’s examine some of the themes in the Mass readings for Palm Sunday.
1st Reading – Isaiah 50:4-7
The prophet speaks to the weary rousing words with the help of God.
He is not disgraced, even in the face of attack and mockery.
Psalm – 22:8-9,17-20,23-24
“My God, my God, why have you abandoned me?”
READ THIS PSALM in light of the Passion of Jesus Christ!
2nd Reading – Philippians 2:6-11
Jesus “emptied himself” by taking on our human form and being crucified for our sake.
Because of his obedience to the Father’s will, his name is exalted above all names, and before him every knee shall bend – in heaven, on earth, and under the earth – proclaiming that he is Lord.
Gospel – Mark 14:1-15:47
Take time this week to read and pray over Mark’s account of the Passion of the Lord.
May the death of Jesus help us to discern the immensity of God’s love for us all.
Like the grain of wheat that falls to the ground and dies in order to bring forth new life, we die to sin and grow in grace to bring forth a spiritual, lifegiving harvest in our souls.
