What Is It? Palm Sunday of the Passion of the Lord: Explained

Jesus was welcomed by the people with cheers and palms—a symbol of victory and sign that "all is well." Palm-bearing date trees were valued for their dignity, beauty, and shade and were used at special occasions to welcome heroes and royalty. 

 No greater love was shown us than Jesus' love for his Father and us, for he gave his life because of his faithfulness to that love. One of Jesus' closest disciples was Peter. Peter loved Jesus, but he didn't always understand what real love required. How very much like Peter we all are! Peter failed Jesus, but Jesus' love for Peter restored their relationship and empowered Peter to learn to love. That should give us all hope. 

As you listen to the Passion on this day, place yourself in the story. What does it feel like to be part of the crowd or to be a disciple? What does it feel like to be in Jesus' place during the Passion? What would you do if you were Jesus' best friend?

Lent ends with the Triduum: Holy Thursday, Good Friday, and the Easter liturgies.