My dear brothers and sisters,
Praise to You Lord Jesus Christ!
Palm Sunday often brings back simple yet powerful memories. I recall how palms were carefully woven into beautiful shapes—crosses, doves, signs of faith—and then placed in our homes, doors, and even our cars. These were not merely decorations; they were reminders that Jesus Christ must be at the center of our lives.
Today, we begin Holy Week with two striking moments. First, the joyful entrance of Jesus into Jerusalem. The people wave palm branches and cry out, “Hosanna!” They welcome Him as King, the long-awaited Messiah. Yet, this celebration quickly gives way to a more solemn reality—the road to the Cross.
The Gospel of Matthew 21: 1-11, reveals both triumph and suffering. Jesus enters not on a warhorse, but on a donkey—humble, gentle, and peaceful. This fulfills the prophecy and reminds us that His kingship is not about power, but about love and sacrifice. As echoed in the Book of Isaiah, the Suffering Servant remains steadfast, setting his face “like flint,” trusting completely in God even in the face of suffering.
The crowds shouted “Hosanna,” yet many misunderstood the kind of Savior Jesus came to be. They expected political liberation; instead, He offered something far greater—salvation from sin and the gift of eternal life. This is the same humility and self-emptying love proclaimed in the letter to the Philippians, where Christ lowers Himself in obedience, even to death on a cross.
Palm Sunday, then, asks us a deeply personal question: Who is Jesus for me? It is easy to praise Him when life is good, to wave our palms and sing “Hosanna.” But will we remain faithful when the path leads to sacrifice, forgiveness, or suffering? The same voices that praised Him would later cry, “Crucify Him.” This reminds us of the fragility of our own commitment.
As we enter this Sacred Week – Holy Week, we are invited to move beyond surface enthusiasm into deeper discipleship. Like the donkey that carried Jesus, we are called to be instruments who bring Him into the world. Like the crowds, we must welcome Him – but with understanding hearts. Like the Suffering Servant, we are called to trust God even in trials.
Let us take time in silence this Holy Week to reflect, pray, and open our hearts more fully to Jesus Christ. May our “Hosanna” not only be words, but a life lived in faith, humility, and love. May this Holy Week be meaningful and fruitful for all of us. Amen. God loves you!
~ Fr. NEIL