Passion Sunday

Our readings for Palm Sunday are:

1. Isaiah 50: 4-7
2. Psalm 28: 8-9, 17-18, 19-20, 23-24
3. Philippians 2: 6-11
4. Mark 14: 1-15:47 (long version) or Mark 15: 1-39 (short version)

1. Lending a hand
• Oftentimes, we come from "different worlds" than those that we help.  We might have a better childhood, more time, more money, more maturity, ... than they do.  How are we to be relevant to them?
• What does it take to have truly authentic ministry?
• What are we getting in return from those whom we serve?
2. All alone
• What difference does it make that God is for us?
• Does that insulate us from the worst that life has to offer?
• If not, why would anyone be attracted to this life?
3. The cost of obedience
• Do you think that Jesus knew for a fact that everything was going to "turn out OK" in the end?
• How do you think that the human Jesus found the humility that he needed to suffer the way that he did?
• What does it really mean for us to "take up our cross and follow Jesus" in our daily lives?
• How can we find the humility needed for that sort of life?
• Is it worth it?
4. Lending a hand
• The passion story has a lot of bit players appear.  Some try to help Jesus, others join in the punishment, but in the end He's getting crucified.
• Do you ever wonder what was going through the mind of Simon of Cyrene?  Did he feel as though he was making a difference by easing Jesus' suffering?
• Is there any way that we can ease Jesus' suffering in our lives today?

Preparation for Reconciliation:

1. Is my ministry making life better for others?
2. What is it exactly that I expect in return for my service to God?
3. Where is Jesus suffering today?  Can I give Him any comfort?
4. Am I willing to speak up for justice, regardless of what I think the outcome might be?

Wood of the Cross

The tell me that this cross piece that I bear has had some noted insurrectionists nailed to it.
A regular piece of history no doubt.  If only wood could talk.
If only the blood that it's absorbed could cry once more.

Jesus shambles along in front of me.
Clearly exhausted, slowly oozing life from a thousand cuts
Feeling the world around him, magnified by bruises beyond counting.

Part of me wants to elbow past him, get this cursed journey over with.
Get to that foresaken hillside that Rome has desecrated with all their executions,
Drop off my burden be on my way, and try to forget.

But even without looking at me, Jesus becons me to abide with Him,
Somehow share this moment, lean into the pain that He bears,
Keep company with Him for just a little while.

I cannot see any real benefit to my strength at this sorry affair.
This story is going to end pretty much the same no matter what I do.
But I match my steps to his, stop thinking about tomorrow, and settle into the moment.

Together, we keep company without words.
Slogging along through familiar streets and lanes.
That have become strange to me in the context of this misery.

There is an odd solitude on this road.
The passers by, the mocking crowds, the soldiers, all become larger than life
And become a sign for all who this Jesus has come to serve.

And as this journey progresses, Jesus looms larger in my view.
The loose limbed gait, the uneven trail of blood, the tattered clothing,
All take on a shattered sweetness in my view.

I know that I will never be the same for sharing this road with Him.
And I wonder where this journey will take me in the days to come.
But wherever it goes, I know that Jesus will be with me because I have been with Jesus.

Shalom!