ScriptureMany 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)ReflectionThis 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
ScriptureJesus said ‘Now my soul is troubled. And what should I say – “Father, save me from this hour?” No, it is for this reason that I have come to this hour.’ (John 12.27)Reflection Thank heaven for all the instances of self-sacrifice which have led to saved lives. There are many who have given their lives to rescue others and many who risk their lives every day to keep others safe. They are heroes and an inspiration. And so are those who face threats, persecution, rigged trials and death for the sake of their integrity and principles of truth and justice. Jesus, the carpenter’s boy from Nazareth, came to be called the Saviour of the World not because he died averting physical danger, but because he would not compromise his message. He saw clearly that he would face death and faced the knowledge that there was no escape except by denying what he knew to be The Truth. They hoped that by his death he would be suppressed; but The Truth will out.David Harmsworth
