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On Palm Sunday, we celebrate the
first joy of the season, as we celebrate Our Lord's triumphant
entrance into Jerusalem where he was welcomed by crowds
worshiping him and laying down palm leaves before him. It also
marks the beginning of Holy Week, with the greatest tragedy and
sorrow of the year.
Jesus' triumphant return to Jerusalem is only one side of the
story.
By now many of the Jews are filled with hate for Our Lord. They
want to see him stoned, calling Him a blasphemer, especially
after offering proof of His Divinity during a winter visit to
Jerusalem for the Feast of the Dedication.
After this, Jesus went to Perea, where he was summoned to
Bethany. There he raised Lazarus from the dead, a miracle which
wins Him such renown among certain Pharisees that they decided
finally to end His life.
Jesus took refuge at Ephrem returning six days before Passover
to Bethany, triumphantly entering Jerusalem. That evening, He
leaves Jerusalem and returns Monday. He spent time with Gentiles
in the Temple, and on Wednesday left for the Mount of Olives.
Here he foretold the apostles the events of the next several
days, including His impending death.
He returned to Jerusalem on Thursday, to share the Last Supper
with His apostles. He was subsequently arrested and tried. He
was crucified at Calvary on Friday, outside the gates of
Jerusalem.
He was buried the same day, and arose three days later, on
Easter Sunday.
All of this is done by our Lord for forgiveness of our sins, and
for life everlasting with Him.
God so loved us, that He sent His only begotten Son to die for
us, so that our sins maybe forgiven. |
