Gamaliel offers sound spiritual guidance to the Sanhedrin regarding their judgment of the Apostles, reminding us that if we remain close to Christ we will be directed and strengthened to carry out the Lord’s work amidst the ongoing attacks of this world.
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.
On the way to Jerusalem, Jesus speaks of his suffering, death, and resurrection. As we follow the Lord today, may we consider how we are called to offer our lives through the sacrifices we make.
Herod’s murder of the baby boys in Bethlehem reveals the senseless violence of our darkened world. This evil, and all the forms it embodies, is overcome by the baby laid in a manger…the Christ who breaks the bonds of sin and death by his victory on the Cross.
As the Lord speaks with his disciples, he reveals his suffering, death and resurrection. May this sacrifice inspire us to recognize our sins and return to Christ, who reveals God’s love through the Cross.
Matthew’s Gospel offers the second prediction of the Lord’s Passion, reminding us that all disciples must face the Cross as they journey through this life.
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