We Would Like to See Jesus

Throughout most of Christianity, this day is referred to as Palm Sunday/Sunday of the Passion. This dual name indicates the two-fold emphasis to this observance. The service begins with the Liturgy of the Palms---commemorating Christ's triumphal entry into Jerusalem. There He is greeted by worshipers who have strewn His pathway with palm branches and articles of clothing. Symbolically, the congregation processes into church holding palm branches to remind us of the honor and glory that is due the "One who comes in the name of the Lord." However, in Jerusalem that first Palm Sunday pageantry dramatically changed to persecution. So also the liturgy today moves from triumphant to penitential. As we hear Jesus foretell His Passion our joy is subdued, and eagerly we await the joyful pronouncements of Easter morning.