“Celebrate God’s Love & Grace”

A very large crowd spread their cloaks on the road, while others cut branches from the trees and spread them on the road. The crowds that went ahead of him and those that followed shouted, “Hosanna to the son of David” “Blessed is HE who comes in the name of the LORD” “Hosanna in the Highest Heaven!” when JESUS entered Jerusalem, the whole city was stirred and asked, who is this?” 

Matthew 21:8-10

For GOD so loved the world that HE gave HIS one and only Son, that whoever BELIEVES in HIM shall not perish but have ETERNAL LIFE. For GOD did not send HIS Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through HIM. 

John 3:16-17

Meditation:

Palm Sunday is a Celebration of God’s Unfailing LOVE and GRACE. It marks a pivotal event in Christianity: the triumphal entry of Jesus into Jerusalem. This day is not only the precursor to the somber events of the Passion Week but also a profound celebration of God’s LOVE, GRACE, and REDEMPTION for humanity. The story, rich with symbolism, invites us to reflect deeply on the magnitude of God's love as revealed through Jesus Christ.

The account of Palm Sunday is beautifully captured in all four Gospels. Matthew 21:9 describes the jubilant crowd’s cries: “Hosanna to the Son of David! Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord! Hosanna in the highest Heaven!”

The word “Hosanna” originates from Hebrew and means “save us, we pray.” The people waved palm branches, a symbol of victory, and welcomed Jesus as their Messiah. But what many didn’t realize was that this King’s victory would not be one of political triumph but of sacrificial LOVE!

Palm Sunday is a demonstration of GOD’s LOVE. It is a vivid reminder of God's immense love for us. Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem wasn’t just a parade of celebration; it was a deliberate step toward His ultimate sacrifice on the cross. John 3:16 captures the heart of God’s love:

“For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have ETERNAL LIFE.”

The triumphal entry exemplifies God's love in two significant ways:

1. Jesus’ Humility: Instead of arriving on a grand horse like a typical earthly king, Jesus chose a donkey—a symbol of peace and humility (Zechariah 9:9). This act reflects God’s love, which is humble, selfless, and accessible to all, regardless of social status or background.

2. Jesus’ Willingness to Suffer: Jesus entered Jerusalem knowing the suffering and betrayal that awaited Him. His obedience to God’s plan demonstrates a LOVE so deep that He was willing to lay down His life for our sins (Romans 5:8).

Palm Sunday serves as an invitation to reflect on how we respond to God’s LOVE. The crowd that shouted “Hosanna” later turned to cries of “Crucify Him!” (Matthew 27:22). This stark contrast challenges us to evaluate our own FAITH and commitment.

Do we embrace God’s LOVE in times of JOY but falter during trials?

Let’s consider a few examples of how we can embody the LOVE of Palm Sunday in our daily lives:

-Acts of HUMILITY: Like Jesus, we can choose humility in our actions, putting others' needs before our own. This could mean offering forgiveness, lending a helping hand, or simply being present for someone in need.

- Sacrificial LOVE: Reflecting God’s sacrificial LOVE might involve giving up our time, resources, or comfort to serve others selflessly. Volunteering at a shelter or supporting someone going through hardship are practical expressions of this LOVE.

- TRUST in GOD’s Plan: Even when faced with challenges, Palm Sunday reminds us to TRUST in God’s LOVE and His plan for our lives. Jesus knew what lay ahead, but His TRUST in God’s will never wavered.

Prayer:

Father in Heaven thank you for LOVING us and sending JESUS, humankind’s LORD and SAVIOR, to teach us that Palm Sunday is more than a historical event. It’s a living testimony of your unwavering LOVE for humanity. It’s a reminder that true victory lies not in power or wealth but in selfless LOVE and sacrifice. As we wave our “palm branches” in celebration of JESUS, may we also carry His LOVE into the world, spreading PEACE, HOPE, and love. EVERYDAY continue helping us to share the Gospel with words and actions online or wherever you send us. in JESUS’ name we pray. Amen!

Jose Reyes.