2024/03/24 SCRIPTURE REFLECTION
Palm Sunday of the Lord’s Passion
- Jeremy Kiolbassa, Director of Music
As I read the scripture for this Sunday, I am particularly taken with the words of Psalm 22. It is a sorrowful text, filled with angst and desolation. I imagine that the words of the refrain must have echoed in Jesus’ mind as he endured his Passion – “My God, my God, why have you abandoned me?” Though these words were written centuries before he walked the earth, they perfectly capture the scenes and emotions surrounding the Crucifixion.
“All who see me scoff at me; they mock me with parted lips… let him deliver him, let him rescue him, if he loves him.” (Psalm 22:8a,9b)
Jesus would have been very familiar with these words. As Jesus is scourged and mocked by the guards, might these words have passed through his mind? It was just hours ago in the garden that he asked to forgo this brutal suffering. Though he never doubted his Father’s will, I can only imagine the fear and anxiety that filled our Savior’s heart in these dark moments. The Psalm continues, painting a sorrowful picture with a hopeful plea:
“They divide my garments among them, and for my vesture they cast lots. But you, O LORD, be not far from me; O my help, hasten to aid me.” (Psalm 22:19-20)
Just as the Psalmist, Jesus is stripped of all of his earthly possessions, humiliated, and tormented. Just days ago he entered Jerusalem as a king, and now he is treated like a criminal. His suffering continues as he is nailed to the wood of the cross, enduring hours of pain and agony. Still, he is steadfast, for he knows what must be done. After many hours, he gives up his life, crying out the words of the Psalm:
“My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” (Psalm 22:2)
Though we tend to focus on the joy of the paschal mystery (and rightfully so), I think there is something to be said for acknowledging the darkness as well. Only in recognizing the sin and transgressions of humanity can we truly appreciate the joyful mystery that is the Resurrection.
“You who fear the LORD, praise him; all you descendants of Jacob, give glory to him; revere him, all you descendants of Israel!” (Psalm 22:24)
As we begin Holy Week, I invite you to spend some time with God. Of course, there are numerous opportunities for prayer here at Saint Clement in the coming days. In addition, I find that simple moments of silence can go a long way. However you pray, I invite you to consider the entirety of the Paschal mystery as it is laid out today. The light, the dark, the ugly, the beautiful, and the glorious. I truly believe that by opening ourselves to this mystery we can become closer to Jesus and experience his great love in our lives.