Daily Reading
Daily Reflection
Jesus' triumphal entry into Jerusalem is a familiar story for some who grew up in church. Children's bibles illustrate this story with colorful pictures of smiling men and women. There are children dancing and scurrying around waving palms in the air as Jesus enters into Jerusalem on a donkey's colt. The excitement and celebratory nature of this scene is evident. But, the significance of the occasion lies in the words that the people are shouting, words that foretold of a Savior. The people knew the chains of oppression, fear, persecution, and injustice. This was the reality into which Jesus was riding. It was a volatile time. The people craved social, economic, political and religious freedom. They also yearned for physical, emotional, and spiritual wholeness. Jesus had a tall order to fill. He enters into a community filled with hope and anxiety.
Jesus' triumph will be filled with anxiety and hope as well. Jesus is heading for death on the cross, the most humiliating, excruciating death one could suffer. Yet, through death life will arise. This is what Jesus offers us as we reflect on his journey during Holy Week. Are you willing to receive this triumph that he offers you? Do not be surprised if your journey is filled with the tension of anxiety and hope it is the only way to true victory.
Daily Worship Resources
Morning Readings: Psalm 36:5-11 > | Isaiah 42:1-9 >
Evening Readings: Hebrews 9:11-15 > | John 12:1-1 >
Other Resources
Read Introduction to the Lent Tradition >
Download pdf of entire Lent devotion >