Apr
05
2009
By Anonymous (not verified)
Readings: Mk 11:1-10 or Jn 12:12-16; Is 50:4-7; Phil 2:6-11; Mk 14:1-15:47 or 15:1-39
"Hosanna! Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord!" Mk 11:10
The Gospel of Mark records that the triumphant Christ entered Jerusalem on a colt. But, with spiritual vision, let's consider a more timeless scene that points to the coming Passion. The King of Kings and Lord of Lords enters the Holy City on a majestic milky-white horse. King Jesus rides on by the cheering crowds who shout with one voice, "Hosanna to the Son of David!" Palm branches and beautiful flowers of every description and color are strewn in His path.
From the mighty to those of lowest rank, the entire people stand at attention as the King rides by through the vaulted archway of every time and place. King Jesus rides on by - soon to take up His royal throne. It is made of simple, rough wood with a gibbet for a seat. A sign is written on it in Greek, Hebrew, and Latin: Jesus the Nazorean, the King of the Jews. Some protest the writing, but Pilate declares, "What I have written, I have written" (Jn 19:22).
As the reality of the cross looms, we see the Roman soldiers preparing Jesus' crown of glory, woven from thorns and thistles. All of humanity is watching with great gratitude and astonishment at the depths of their great King's love. The cheers grow louder and louder, as all heaven and earth join in praising the King who has come to save His people and gather them from every race, tongue, and nation into His Church.
The cross and the soldiers remind us that the drama of Holy Week lies ahead - the consummation of Jesus' kingship as He enters into His glory. Yet, today is for rejoicing. Jesus is revealed as our triumphant King and the joy of our hearts. Let us offer King Jesus palm branches of praise as He rides on. With lives of loving and devoted service, let us join all of our brothers and sisters in singing, "Hosanna! Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord!" (Mk 11:10).
Come, Lord Jesus. Take up Your throne at the center of my heart. Grant me the courage and love to follow You during the time of Your Passion and death. Amen.
"Hosanna! Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord!" Mk 11:10
The Gospel of Mark records that the triumphant Christ entered Jerusalem on a colt. But, with spiritual vision, let's consider a more timeless scene that points to the coming Passion. The King of Kings and Lord of Lords enters the Holy City on a majestic milky-white horse. King Jesus rides on by the cheering crowds who shout with one voice, "Hosanna to the Son of David!" Palm branches and beautiful flowers of every description and color are strewn in His path.
From the mighty to those of lowest rank, the entire people stand at attention as the King rides by through the vaulted archway of every time and place. King Jesus rides on by - soon to take up His royal throne. It is made of simple, rough wood with a gibbet for a seat. A sign is written on it in Greek, Hebrew, and Latin: Jesus the Nazorean, the King of the Jews. Some protest the writing, but Pilate declares, "What I have written, I have written" (Jn 19:22).
As the reality of the cross looms, we see the Roman soldiers preparing Jesus' crown of glory, woven from thorns and thistles. All of humanity is watching with great gratitude and astonishment at the depths of their great King's love. The cheers grow louder and louder, as all heaven and earth join in praising the King who has come to save His people and gather them from every race, tongue, and nation into His Church.
The cross and the soldiers remind us that the drama of Holy Week lies ahead - the consummation of Jesus' kingship as He enters into His glory. Yet, today is for rejoicing. Jesus is revealed as our triumphant King and the joy of our hearts. Let us offer King Jesus palm branches of praise as He rides on. With lives of loving and devoted service, let us join all of our brothers and sisters in singing, "Hosanna! Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord!" (Mk 11:10).
Come, Lord Jesus. Take up Your throne at the center of my heart. Grant me the courage and love to follow You during the time of Your Passion and death. Amen.
mmwj
