Scripture Reflection - April 13, 2025

Palm Sunday

Luke 19:28-40 | Isaiah 50:4-7    | Philippians 2:6-11, 8-9    | Luke 22:14-23:56

Today begins a week of ups and downs. During Holy Week, we experience turmoil and chaos, as well as fellowship and joy. We have our feet washed, take part in understanding our role in the cross that Jesus carries, and hear the stories of our ancestors, which lead us to our salvation story. We have palms, water, bread, wine, wood, fire, more water, incense, music, and flowers. We have the only Sunday with two Gospels today and the only day during the Church year with no consecration of the Eucharist on Friday. We have a liturgy that begins on Thursday and doesn’t really end until Sunday evening - the three days of the Triduum. 

And so Holy Week begins… 

We proudly carry our palms in celebration of Jesus’s triumphant entry into Jerusalem during the liturgy. In the Gospel of Luke, the people clear the streets and lay their cloaks on the road. Even the owner of the colt readily gives up his animal so Jesus can ride into town. They claim him as king. 

Later in the liturgy, we proclaim The Passion, with those of us in the congregation calling out to crucify Jesus. The one celebrated as king is crucified with the same title, as the inscription is placed, “This is the King of the Jews.” 

Most of the disciples are hiding, and it is the criminal next to him who asks to be remembered when Jesus is in his kingdom. 

The ups and downs of this Holy Week invite us to reflect on how The Passion plays out in our every day. We recognize our sinfulness and failings, as well as the community that companions us, as we join the disciples on this final journey with Jesus. We are assured that even in our darkest moments, Jesus will rise again, and there is hope for each of us to grow closer to him. 

When have I recognized God’s love in the people around me, even as they may be scorned by the majority?

Whose feet do I need to wash in service? Who do I need to break bread with?

When do I deny seeing God in others because of fear or status?

Where do I need the light of Christ in my life so I may respond, “Thanks be to God”?

How will the Resurrection become more real in my life this Easter?

Prayer: May this be a holy week for me, that in each day, I may grow closer to God and the communities around me, especially those that are suffering. May we together walk toward the joy of the Resurrection of Christ.

Sr. Jenn Schaaf, OP