Palm Sunday

Readings for April 13, 2014 — Palm Sunday of the Lord’s Passion

Matthew 21:1-11; Isaiah 50:4-7; Psalm 22: 8-9, 17-18, 19-20, 23-24; Philippians 2:6-11; Matthew 26:14-27:66

Suggested Reflection Questions:

  • The opening Gospel shows the people following Jesus at the procession with the palms praising him shouting, “Hosanna to the Son of David; blessed is the he who comes in the name of the Lord; hosanna in the highest.”  Later this week we will see these same people condemning Jesus. How will we walk with Jesus during Holy Week? How has our Lenten journey made us closer to God?

  • In St. Paul’s letter to the Philippians, he tells us how Jesus is fully human and fully divine. Jesus made the ultimate sacrifice. He remained obedient and faithful to God even through his death on the cross. What are your reactions to your Lenten sacrifice? How has it changed you? What does Jesus’ suffering mean to you? How do you react to suffering and death?

  • Matthew’s Gospel this week shares the story of Jesus’ death on the cross: the Passover, Judas’s betrayal, Jesus’ arrest, death, and burial. This is definitely an emotional reading. Jesus is abandoned by many who once supported him. Have you ever had a Judas moment? What things in your life cause you to turn away from God?