Isaiah 50:4–7, Philippians 2:6-11 & Matthew 26:14–27:66
Entering the Lord’s Passion
Today we enter into the mystery of Holy Week, beginning with Palm Sunday—a day of both joy and sorrow, triumph and suffering. We hold palms in our hands and proclaim “Hosanna!” just as the people did when Jesus entered Jerusalem. Yet, in the Gospel from Gospel of Matthew (26:14–27:66), that same crowd will soon cry, “Crucify him!” This contrast invites us to look deeply into our own hearts.
The first reading from Book of Isaiah (50:4–7) presents the Suffering Servant, one who listens to God and remains faithful even in the face of suffering. “I did not turn backward,” he says. A statement fulfilled in Christ, who walks resolutely toward the Cross. In the Responsorial Psalm, Psalm 22, we hear the cry, “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?”—words Jesus Himself speaks on the Cross, showing that He fully enters into human pain.
Today’s second reading, reveals the heart of this mystery: though Jesus was in the form of God, He emptied Himself, taking the form of a servant, becoming obedient unto death—even death on a cross. Because of this humility, God exalted Him. The path of suffering leads to glory.
So what is the significance of Palm Sunday for all of us? It is not only a remembrance of Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem; it is an invitation to follow Him. The palms we carry symbolise victory, but not the kind the world understands. Christ’s victory comes through sacrifice, love, and obedience. Palm Sunday challenges us: are we willing to walk with Jesus, not just in moments of praise, but also in moments of suffering?
During this time, we notice that crosses and statues in the church are veiled. This veiling has deep meaning. It reminds us that the glory of Christ is hidden as we approach His Passion. Our senses are subdued so that our hearts may become more attentive. The covered images create a sense of longing—we are being prepared to see more clearly the mystery of the Cross on Good Friday and the glory of the Resurrection at Easter. It is as if the Church is saying: do not be distracted by what is visible; enter more deeply into what is invisible and spiritual.
How, then, should we prepare for Holy Week? First, through silence and reflection. Take time to read the Passion slowly, placing yourself in the story. Are you like Peter, who denies Jesus? Like Judas, who betrays Him? Like the crowd, easily swayed? Or like Simon of Cyrene, who helps carry the Cross? Each of us finds ourselves somewhere in this story.
Second, through repentance. Holy Week is a powerful time to seek forgiveness and be reconciled with God and others. We cannot fully celebrate Easter if our hearts remain closed.
Third, through participation. Attend the liturgies of Holy Thursday, Good Friday, and the Easter Vigil. These are not just rituals; they are encounters with the living Christ.
Finally, through love. As Christ gives Himself completely, we are called to do the same in our daily lives—through patience, kindness, and sacrifice.
As we begin this sacred week, let us not remain on the surface. Let us walk with Jesus—from the joy of Palm Sunday, through the sorrow of the Cross, to the glory of the Resurrection. And in doing so, may we discover not only who Christ is, but who we are called to become.
