PALM SUNDAY / SUNDAY OF THE PASSION
April 2, 2023
AS WE GATHER
Both palms and passion are integral themes this day. Jesus comes into Jerusalem not for the crowds, but for the cross. He comes to suffer in our place and die our death that we might have life in Him. You cannot have the palms without the passion. We therefore join our voices in welcome to our King who comes humble and mounted on a donkey. However, before we leave, we will hear the first voice of the Passion that will be echoed all week long. Palms and hosannas become suffering and death on the cross, where hope is born. Hosanna! Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord.
BIBLE READINGS
OLD TESTAMENT: Isaiah 50:4–9a
(Who is my adversary?)
EPISTLE READING: Philippians 2:5–11
(Even death on a cross)
HOLY GOSPEL: John 12:12-19
(Procession)