Jesus: Well, today I praise you… And tomorrow?
Today, on Palm Sunday, I join the crowd cheering, “Hosanna! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!” (Jn 12:13). The joy of the procession, the clapping in the wind and the songs fill the atmosphere with jubilation. However, as I close my eyes and meditate, I am overcome with deep reflection.
How is it possible that those who today acclaim Jesus, in a few days deny him, reject him and abandon him? How can I, who praise him in the morning, forget him in the evening or even offend him in the night? Jesus, being God, emptied Himself and took the form of a servant, becoming obedient even to death on the cross (Phil 2:6-11). His entry into Jerusalem was not only a symbolic act, but the beginning of his passion, of his total dedication for love of us.
This contrast between acclaim and rejection leads me to examine my own faithfulness. Am I willing to follow Jesus not only in moments of glory, but also on the way of sacrifice and the cross? Do I stand firm in my faith when circumstances get tough?
Pope Francis reminds us that Jesus experienced abandonment “so as not to leave us hostage to desolation and to be at our side forever.” In his suffering, Jesus stands in solidarity with all those who feel alone, betrayed or abandoned. He invites us to have eyes and hearts for the abandoned, so that no one is marginalized.
At Easter and every day, renew your spirit
As we begin this Holy Week, I invite you to reflect on your relationship with God. Ask the Holy Spirit to help you know Christ more intimately, love Him more intensely, and follow Him more closely. May our praise not be ephemeral, but a constant expression of love and commitment to the One who gave his life for us.
Let us remember that Jesus does not expect our perfection, but our willing heart. He loves us always and desires to walk with us at every step of our lives. Let us open the door of our hearts and let Him in, not just today, but every day.
May this Holy Week be a time of spiritual renewal, of profound encounter with Jesus and of renewed commitment to his Gospel. Let’s continue to be Pilgrims of Hope!
Hosanna to the Son of David! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!
