“The next day, the great crowd that had come to the Passover festival heard that Jesus was coming to Jerusalem. So they took branches of palm trees and went out to meet him, shouting, ‘Hosanna! Blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord – the King of Israel!'”
(John 12:12-13)
Today is a Sunday with a split personality. It is both Palm Sunday and Passion Sunday. Our worship starts with the upbeat Gospel telling of the party atmosphere that erupts when Jesus rides into Jerusalem. It’s a festive affair, complete with a parade route lined by palm branches.
But quickly the party’s over, and our Scripture lessons turn dark as we fast-forward to Friday and the stark story of the Lord’s passion and death. Yes, the story is harsh. But it is bearable only because we already know its happy ending.
Remember, the steps you take toward the Cross you do not walk alone. Jesus walks with you. Though he is the Lord and you are you, the two of you are truly one. So, his way of the cross 2,000 years ago and your “way” now are also one.
But note this difference. His life was incomplete until he crowned it by his death. Your steps will only be complete when you have crowned them by your life. So seek Jesus not in far-off places. He is close at hand. Your workbench, office, kitchen, classroom – these are the places where you offer love. And Jesus is there with you. Accept each moment as it comes to you, with faith and trust that all that happens has Christ’s mark on it.
Go now! Take up your cross, and with your life, complete your way in Christ Jesus the Lord.
We adore you, O Christ, and we praise you!
For by your holy Cross, you have redeemed the world!