What a Way to Walk

“When Jesus and his followers approached Jerusalem . . .” (Mark 11:1) All of the gospels depict Jesus and his disciples on a constant road trip. By the time this week ends, their destination will at last be reached. Jerusalem, center of national hopes and pride, the great Temple, heart of the faith of Israel. Although he is welcomed into the capital with crowds crying “Hosanna!” the adoration will cease as Jesus is taken to his cross. To be with Jesus is to follow Jesus, go where he goes and move in the world as he moves. It’s a narrow way, as we shall learn in this week’s scriptures, a way that not many wish to go. Here is the scripture we must read in order to prepare ourselves for the holiest week of the Christian year, journeying with Jesus to the very heart of our faith.

Read Isaiah 50:4-9a. How does your faith community reflect the servant in this reading?
Read Psalm 118:1-2, 19-29. How are you rejoicing in this day that the Lord has made? How are you blessing “the one who comes in the name of the Lord”?
Read Philippians 2:5-11. How does this hymn of the early Christian community speak to you as you prepare for Holy Week?
Read Mark 11:1-11, 15-18. Spend some time imagining the scene of Jesus entering Jerusalem as described in the reading. Where are you in the scene? What do you see? What do you hear around you? What do you feel as you watch this event?