Friends,
Today marks the end of Lent and the beginning of Holy Week, the doorway to Easter. The readings focus on Jesus’s sacrifice for us and express confidence in God’s faithfulness.
In the second reading, St. Paul highlights Jesus’ humility. He emptied himself of the glory that was his as the Son of God. He gives himself away totally in love, coming among us as the suffering servant described by Isaiah in the first reading. Jesus puts others before himself rather than seeking power or honor.
Riding into Jerusalem on a donkey, Jesus shows us his way is one of love, compassion, mercy, humility, and service. We hear the crowds welcome him excitedly, shouting ‘Hosanna’ and wanting to make Jesus the king who will save them from Rome.
The Gospel read during mass presents a stark contrast: The same crowds that welcomed Jesus with excitement and shouts of ‘Hosanna’ are now turning against him and calling for his arrest. This sudden shift in their allegiance underscores the fickleness of human nature. In the face of this betrayal, Jesus endures mockery, beatings, condemnation, crucifixion, and burial. He is betrayed by one of his own disciples, denied by another, and abandoned by most.
The Psalm describes this humiliation. On the cross, Jesus prays the psalm’s response: ‘My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?’
Today, let us remember the invitation extended to us not to be mere spectators in this journey but to walk with Jesus through Holy Week, experience his suffering, and be transformed by his love. Lord, we humbly ask for your guidance as we strive to walk with you and be strengthened by your example and teaching.
Joy and peace.
