Monday's thoughts

Palm Sunday
Sunday March 28th for the church is the beginning of Holy Week. It recalls for us the last days of Jesus' life. It begins with his heroic journey into Jerusalem, the turning over of the tables in the Temple, the Last Supper, the betrayal, the arrest, the trial, the crucifixion and it ends with Easter Sunday.

Palm Sunday is one of the most interesting days of the church year. What happened on that occasion is the merger of heroics and praise. In some ways Jesus finally received the recognition he deserved. In other ways it was precisely what he never would have wanted. In some ways it was the precipitating factor that led to his death. In other ways it was a crowning or coronation. Palm branches put down on the path as he rode into Jerusalem indicate the coming of a king. The humble manner in which he rode into town is reflective of the true and consistent nature of the person he was from birth to death. He came riding a donkey; not a champion steed. He came to confront the hypocrisy of his religious leaders and he made the Romans fearful.

The plot was set. The pieces were set in motion and it led to his death. And his death led to his resurrection.

Palm Sunday is prelude to Easter but it requires significant twists and turns prior to the final stage.

It raises questions that we have to address;
Was the trip into Jerusalem necessary?
Why did the disciples run when he was arrested?
What was Judas thinking when he betrayed him?
What caused Peter to deny knowing him?

What did the people see in him that made them think he was some kind of king?

If you have answers for any or all of these questions write me at charlesschuster@fcfumc.net. If you would be willing to share your thoughts click on the box below.

I look forward to hearing from you.

Charles