God's Sign of Hope

Blessed is the one 

who comes in the 

name of the Lord

Psalm 118:26

It may come as a surprise, but there are no palm branches in Luke’s Gospel. None. In fact, comparing Matthew, Mark, and Luke, we only find cloaks and branches mentioned. Palm branches are mentioned only once: John 12:13. 

OK, palm branches are fun to wave around, watch kids play "swords", and parade around the church. That's hardly the point though, is it. 

Matthew, Mark, and Luke each tell Sunday's story with a different twist, but with two similar themes.

First, Jesus is a political activist riding into town on a young donkey. Israel’s kings did this and it's what people were expecting and awaiting. Kings change things.

Second, Jesus is making a theological statement declaring himself the long-expected king promised by the prophets. That's why Luke's people cheer, “Blessed is the king who comes in the name of the Lord!" (Ps. 118:26).  God is fulfilling promises.

Jesus rides into Jerusalem on a young donkey to a cheering, welcoming crowd, making a political and theological statement. Why then, do the Pharisees want Jesus to silence the crowd? 

Who are these people that if silenced the stones would shout out? 

They are the unheard, the poor, the oppressed, the outcast. The ones longing for God's kingdom of justice and mercy. 

Jesus riding into Jerusalem is a sign of God's hope for these people.

Who is shouting to be heard this Holy Week? 

Followers of Jesus are called to listen to the silenced ones. When we do, the Gospel comes alive transforming the silenced ones with God's hope of fulfilled promises. 

Who is longing to be heard where you are? The homeless? Immigrant women caring for children and older parents? Transgender teens? People of different a religion or race?

What stories do they long to tell? 

Are you listening and hearing?