At the Last Supper, Jesus foretells the betrayal of Judas and the denial of Peter. It is a dark moment, revealing to us both the reason why Christ came, and his commitment to offering his life on the Cross.
As we hear how the plot is swirling around Jesus, events are set in motion that will lead to the Cross. May we reflect on God’s great love story for our salvation, making any adjustments and corrections for the day that we, too, will journey from this life to the next.
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.
The high priest, Caiaphas, offers a prophetic insight: “It is better for you, that one man should die instead of the people, so that the whole nation may not perish.” With these solemn words, we step into Holy Week.
Jesus reveals his identity while discussing Abraham and the prophets. This revelation that Jesus is God inspires us to follow the Lord in the midst of the blessings and burdens of daily life.
The story of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego in the book of Daniel is an well-known passage that illustrates our faith in God in difficult and challenging times. May we be inspired in our daily struggles to hold fast to our faith, recognizing that these are opportunities to witness our love for the Lord.
The Psalm response offers us a framework for a prayer to the Lord from the depths of our hearts. In our need, may we trust in God’s mercy as we seek the pilgrim path of our lives.
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.
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