Readings click to read
WORD AMONG US WAU.ORG Reflections
Daily Meditation: Matthew 26:14–27:66
Truly, this was the Son of God! (Matthew 27:54)
If Jesus were the star of a Hollywood movie, his triumphal entrance into Jerusalem would surely be the end of the film: a joyous celebration of the Messiah receiving the recognition and honor that he deserves. The movie would show how Jesus lived a sinless life, how he spent three years proclaiming and demonstrating that the kingdom of God was at hand, and how he trained his disciples. And in spite of some misunderstandings during his time of ministry, at last the crowds would finally acknowledge who he really was: the Son of God, the promised Messiah. The end.
But as we read in today’s Gospel, Palm Sunday was actually the beginning of one of the most significant weeks in history. Although it seemed as if things took a turn for the worse as the week went on—with Jesus’ betrayal, abandonment, torture, and death—God’s plan of salvation for the world was unfolding.
In a homily on Palm Sunday, St. Bernard of Clairvaux remarked,
How different the cries that now are calling him “King of Israel” and then in a few days’ time will be saying, “We have no king but Caesar!” What a contrast between the green branches and the cross, between the flowers and the thorns! Before they were offering their own clothes for him to walk upon, and so soon afterwards they are stripping him of his, and casting lots upon them.
As you begin Holy Week, join the crowds in shouting, “Hosanna to the Son of David!” (Matthew 21:9). Then stay with Jesus all week as he prepares to suffer and die. Take some time each day to consider this one realization in today’s Gospel: “Truly, this was the Son of God!” (27:54). Jesus, the Son of God, suffered and died for you—and that is better than any Hollywood ending.
“Hosanna! Jesus, my King and my Lord, I praise you!”
--------------------------
1. What attitudes do you see in this prophecy of Christ that we should embrace?
Second Reading — Philippians 2:6-11
2. How did Jesus express humility through his life and death?
3. What do the expressions, “every knee shall bow” and “every tongue confess” really mean?
Gospel Reading — Matthew 26:14-27:66
4. How were you moved through this account of Jesus’ last days?
5. What are the three most profound truths of these passages?
.
.
