Palm Sunday of the Passion of the Lord

Palm Sunday of the Passion of the Lord

Were you there when they crucified my Lord?

The song we pray with today and tomorrow comes to us from the tradition of African American spirituals. The verses are straightforward, raw, and provocative; the repetition of the questions compels us to respond. We weren’t in Jerusalem thousands of years ago when they crucified our Lord, of course, but by calling it to mind through sacramental ritual and prayer, we make that event present here and now. Whenever we unite our suffering to Jesus’s, the Cross becomes real for us.
So today, on Palm Sunday, we step into the mystery of Jesus’s self-gift: his acceptance of the manic mob, accusations and slander, abandonment, and torture and death. We take up our own roles in this drama—first with the crowd, then with the disciples, and finally at the foot of the Cross—to be touched by his saving love.

Prayer for Morning
Savior of the world, you accepted your suffering and death out of faithful- ness to the Father and love for us. Grant me the same faithfulness today. Holy Redeemer, I will remain with you.

Ponder Today
How might I stand with someone who is suffering today?

Prayer for Evening

Savior of the world, our lives take on the shape of your saving love through the Sacrament of Baptism. Grant us hope as we renew our participation in the mystery of your love. Holy Redeemer, remain with me.