Scripture

Many people spread their cloaks on the road, while others spread branches they had cut in the fields. Those who went ahead and those who followed shouted ‘Hosanna! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord! ‘ (Mark 11. 8-10)

Reflection

This is the celebration chant the crowd sang as Jesus made his way into Jerusalem in the week before his death. They loved him and cheered him because they thought he was going to overthrow the Roman Empire and set them free. Indeed, he had come to set them free, but not in the way they thought.

He had come to set them free from themselves - to show them a new way of living - one of love, compassion, unselfishness - a way of living that puts others first, doesn’t judge, and is inclusive and affirming to all.

The cheering crowd on Palm Sunday thought he had come with great power and might to set them free from oppression. The same crowd crucified Him a few days later because He didn’t live up to their expectations. But Jesus had come with great power and love to set them free in a different way. The power of love is the power of Easter Sunday. Love conquered death, love won the victory and love is the message that Jesus brought then, and brings to us today. Love truly is the ‘reason for the season’.

Vicki Young