The crowds that went ahead of him and those that followed shouted, “Hosanna to the Son of David!”, “Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!, “Hosanna in the highest heaven!”   Matthew 21 : 9

Readings this week Isaiah 50 : 4 – 9a; Philippians 2 : 5 - 11; Matthew 21 : 1 – 11

Thought for this week

The clocks have changed today! It is surprising the impact the change has. To lose an hour seems to throw the whole day. And then we have lighter evenings (and darker mornings). Yet it gives us the anticipation of summer. We’re suddenly looking ahead into a new season.

Today we commemorate Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem. Most of the passage from Matthew’s Gospel features Jesus making provision for the entry. Arranging for the two animals to be made ready. A rare example of Jesus anticipating and even directing events in the future. Fulfilling scripture, and showing how He is completely aware of what is ahead.

Jesus knew all that would await Him in Jerusalem, and He chose to go ahead with it. He was entering the events that led to His suffering and sacrifice. Terrible moments, endured for us, to win for us forgiveness and hope. Even new life.

This is Jesus’ incredible love for us. Surrendering Himself into human hands and to the events that led to His death and Resurrection, for us.

Whatever life brings us, Jesus has already gone ahead, and always brings His hope and new life. In His love He has conquered and overcome. We can always trust in Him for whatever the future holds. 

Rev Paul

Prayer for this week

Almighty and everlasting God, who in your tender love towards the human race sent your Son our Saviour Jesus Christ to take upon him our flesh and to suffer death upon the cross: grant that we may follow the example of his patience and humility, and also be made partakers of his resurrection; through Jesus Christ your Son our Lord, Amen

True and humble king, hailed by the crowd as Messiah: grant us the faith to know you and love you, that we may be found beside you on the way of the cross, which is the path of glory. Amen

To give thanks for…..

The opportunities we have to witness to our faith, as individuals and as a church

All those who are working over Easter, especially in the emergency services

For those coming to baptism at this time