Palm Sunday begins with the Gospel telling of Jesus’ Triumphal Entry into Jerusalem, when He was greeted by enthusiastic crowds hailing Him as the Messiah. But then we hear the reading of the Passion Gospel, recounting how, at the end of the week, He received a crown, but it was made of thorns. His only earthly throne was the Cross, the means of his execution, to which Pilate had affixed the charge, “This is Jesus, the king of the Jews.”
But God transformed what the worldly powers did into a victory, for the spiritual powers of love and forgiveness are not limited by what we can do. Jesus, who is God become man, gave up His glory in heaven and accepted humiliation on Earth to restore our relationship with the Father. He gave up everything, even His life, for our sake.
We have to ask ourselves what we’re willing to give up in return. Even though we may not have to give up our life for our faith, we need to make a thankful response. Are you willing to make a commitment to use a portion of your time for prayer, worship, and Bible reading? Are you willing to contribute your talent for the service of God and his people? Are you willing to share your treasure for the sake of the Kingdom of God? How grateful are you for Christ’s gift?
