Hosanna in the highest!

This coming Sunday will begin our annual solemn remembrance of the final week of Jesus' life, which we call Holy Week. We begin by remembering Jesus' entry into Jerusalem when he was welcomed by the people as the "Son of David" with shouts of "Hosanna in the highest!" We wave palm branches and enter the church in procession.

However, our readings then remind us of the harsh reality that these good feelings did not last among the people who welcomed him. The Gospel will be the reading of the Passion from Matthew's Gospel, beginning with Judas' betrayal. We will hear the events of the whole week played out in this reading, from the Last Supper, to the crucifixion, to the laying of his body in the tomb.

As we approach this sacred week, in which we take part in some of the most ancient practices of our faith, let us pray that our hearts may enter in fully. While these moments are ones that remind us of our darkest hour as humans, when we put God to death, they also show us the great love he has for us. God sent his only Son to save us by "becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross." May this reality move us to be the men and women God made us to be, ones who, like Jesus, are known for the way that we love.

Want to prepare your heart and mind for Mass this weekend? Click here to find the readings this Sunday's Mass.