Gospel Reading: Matthew 26:14—27:66
Palm Sunday or Passion Sunday? “Hosanna” or “Crucify him”? Today’s readings are meant to prepare us for the holiest week of the year, and yet the messages can be confusing. Today’s reading of the passion is a summary of what we know the week will bring. We, who know the story’s ending, can traverse this week as if looking through a photo album of memories. Yes, we saw the awe and admiration of the people, but we also know how they turned in just a few days' time. AND we know how it turns out!
And what does all this mean for me today? In the photo album of my own life, where are the Hosanna times of joy, blessing, and gratitude for the wonders God has shown me? But then, where are those Crucifying moments of sorrow, of anger, of betrayal, of questioning? We all have these contradictory times in our lives. The question becomes what will prevail in the end.
The very fact that you are reading a reflection today gives you a hint at where you are headed. Ask yourself: do I stay with the palm-waving crowds and keep repeating 'Hosanna'? Or do I give in to the voices around me that echo despair?
The beauty is that I do know the ending! I do know what happens next Sunday! I do know that there is life beyond the grief. I do know that God does not leave me in my sorrow or my weakness. God may seem to be entombed, out of reach for a while. But if I trust, if I remember, then (spoiler alert!) I can believe that Hosanna will echo again and soon grow into Alleluia!
TRUST…WAIT…BELIEVE!
Sister Catherine Fedewa, CSFN
