Palm Sunday ‘C’

The Church celebrates Palm Sunday today, marking the beginning of Holy Week with a liturgy that highlights both glory and suffering. The triumphal entry of Jesus into Jerusalem, welcomed by His followers who came with Him from the Mount of Olives, contrasts with the pain of His unjust trial and crucifixion. Holy Week invites us to reflect on the events that led to our redemption and salvation, to appreciate the sacrifice Jesus made, and to respond to God's love by loving others. As we meditate on the Paschal mysteries, we are encouraged to forsake sin and rise anew with Christ, fostering healing, reconciliation, and redemption. Active participation in the Holy Week liturgies strengthens our relationship with God, deepens our faith, and empowers us as disciples of Jesus.

Today's First Reading is from the third Servant Song in Isaiah, where Jesus saw reflections of His own mission.

The Second Reading, from Paul’s Letter to the Philippians, might be an ancient Christian hymn, illustrating an early understanding of Jesus’ identity and His mission to save us from sin and death.

In today’s Gospel, we immerse ourselves in the Passion of Christ according to Saint Luke. We are invited to reflect on our lives through characters like Peter, who denied Jesus; Judas, who betrayed Him; Pilate, who condemned Him; Herod, who mocked Him; and the leaders who preserved their power by rejecting Him.

Let us avoid bringing sorrow to Jesus' heart, as He wept over Jerusalem at the start of His Palm Sunday journey.

During this Holy Week, let us open our hearts to Jesus, surrendering our lives to Him as our Lord and Savior.

May we embody His universal love, unconditional forgiveness, and sacrificial service in our families, workplaces, and communities.