Palm Sunday (Luke 19: 28-40) "Why Did Jesus Die"
Palm Sunday (Luke 19:28-40) “Why Did Jesus Die?”
Marches have been a form of protest throughout human history.
When people are poor and powerless this is a non-violent way of resistance.
On March 12, 1930, Mahatma Gandhi began a 240-mile march from Ahmedabad, India to Dandi on the coast. Thousands of people joined him in what became known as his “March to the Sea.” Gandhi was pushing for India’s independence from the British empire. The empire had tried to control India in many ways. One law that was especially abhorrent was the Salt Act of 1882. The British Empire wanted to make it illegal to make salt. In effect ,it was a tax that poured money into the treasury of England.
Gandhi made it to the sea where he dried sea water and made salt. Many followed his example. Gandhi was arrested which drew the attention of the world. But other protesters were beaten as they protested. Police hit them over the heads with batons. Images of this were sent around the world. The world was shocked by the brutality. The public began to have great sympathy for India.
Some scholars would say that Jesus’ procession into Jerusalem was a form of non-violent protest. Really, there were two marches taking place. The Roman governor processed into the city from the west. The usual practice, at Passover was for the governor to come to Jerusalem with reinforcements. The city would be crowded with people who would be religiously inspired. Perhaps they would long for the restoration of independence. The Romans wanted to make sure that their subjects remembered the power of Rome. They believed show of military power would head off any trouble, so the Roman soldiers came with all the chariots and weaponry to make a statement.
On the other side of town another statement was being made. A motley band of Jews came escorting a prophet named Jesus into town. He was a leader who meekly rode on an Ass. His action recalled what the Prophet Zechariah wrote in the 9th chapter of his book. The new king would come meek and riding on an ass. A new king was in town. All the Jews who witnessed what was happening knew what Jesus was up to, what he was representing. Jesus’ march protested the injustices that were taking place in God’s holy city. The poor and the weak were exploited for financial gain by not only the Romans, but the Jewish ruling class in Jerusalem. Jesus had come for a non-violent confrontation. He had come to bring hope to the people. His courage inspired others to express their dissatisfaction with the status quo.
What do we remember this week? We remember that Jesus always stands with victims of injustice. He is a sign that God is not the property of the rich and the powerful. No, it is blasphemy to think so. Wherever there is exploitation of people, it is an offense against God. Jesus’ church must always stand up for those whose rights are being violated. Often rulers use religious language to veil their sins. When that happens, people of faith, need to react with disgust.
As we pray this week, let us remember that a large part of the reason Jesus ended up on the cross is because he was tired of the things of God being exploited for political and material gain. He called out the lie. He was crucified to silence his voice. But his message continues to be proclaimed. In the end justice will reign. We look forward to that day this Holy Week as we pray for all those who suffer from famine, war, intolerance, exploitation and a host of other evils.
Reflection Questions:
- What is the most unjust situation I can think of in the world right now? Do I see Jesus suffering there?
- Why did Jesus die on the cross? Was it for my sins or for the sins of the world?
Palm Sunday, April 10, 2022
Dear Parishioners,
In advance, I would like to wish everyone a Happy Easter! We have a new activity planned for Easter Sunday. The Religious Education Program is sponsoring an Easter Egg Hunt for all children of the parish up to 10 years old following the 11 a.m. Mass. I thank Debbie Patronagio for spearheading this effort. I hope there is great participation.
Easter Eggs have always been a symbol for Easter. Some Eastern European countries blow out the contents of an egg and then they paint Easter symbols on it. It is a wonderful expression of faith. This is something that is done in Ukraine. The eggs are brought out for many years like we bring out Christmas ornaments year after year.
There is lot of death and destruction in Ukraine today. I have been struck by the faith that the people have. Unfortunately, many of their churches are being destroyed right now. When sacred places are destroyed it’s an attack on a nation’s soul.
Our prayer right now should be that there will be peace in Ukraine and that the country will rise from its broken state and be resurrected. Never has the Easter message needed to be proclaimed more.
May Our Lady of Sorrows embrace all who are hurting just as she held the body of her beloved Son when he was taken from the cross.
May the wounds of the world be transformed into symbols of new life as were the wounds of Jesus. Alleluia. Alleluia.
Fr. Mark