Palm Sunday - [3-24]

As we begin the Holy Week, the Sunday before Easter is celebrated as Palm Sunday. This day marks the triumphant entry of Jesus into Jerusalem. The event is described in all four Gospels of the New Testament. The people of Jerusalem welcomed Jesus as a king, spreading palm branches on the road and shouting "Hosanna to the Son of David! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord! Hosanna in the highest heaven!" (Matthew 21:9).

Why is Palm Sunday important?

Palm Sunday is significant as it marks the beginning of the Holy Week, which is the most important week in the Christian calendar. The Holy Week includes the events leading up to the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus Christ. The triumphal entry of Jesus into Jerusalem symbolized the fulfillment of the prophecy in Zechariah 9:9: "Rejoice greatly, O Daughter of Zion! Shout, Daughter of Jerusalem! See, your king comes to you, righteous and victorious, lowly and riding on a donkey, on a colt, the foal of a donkey."

How is Palm Sunday celebrated?

Palm Sunday is celebrated with great enthusiasm and joy in many churches worldwide. The service often begins with a procession of palm branches, which are blessed by the priest. The congregation holds the blessed palms and sings hymns of praise and thanksgiving. The reading of the Gospel account of Jesus' entry into Jerusalem is an essential part of the service.

What can we learn from Palm Sunday?

Palm Sunday teaches us about humility, sacrifice, and service. Jesus entered Jerusalem riding on a donkey, which symbolizes humility and peace. Even though the people welcomed him as a king, he came to serve and not to be served. Jesus' ultimate sacrifice on the cross reminds us of the depth of God's love for us and the need for us to live a life of service to others.

Palm Sunday is a significant day in the Christian calendar. It marks the beginning of the Holy Week and reminds us of the importance of humility, sacrifice, and service. As we celebrate Palm Sunday, let us remember the selfless love of Jesus and strive to live a life that reflects his teachings.