AUDIO MEDITATION:

Anthony van Dyck (Flemish, 1599-1641), Entry of Christ into Jerusalem. Public domain.

FULL TEXT:

As the feast of Passover approaches, Jesus can anticipate what will happen when he goes to Jerusalem, and he has made arrangements. He tells his followers, “Go into the village… and you will find a colt… Untie it and bring it here.”

Jesus is focused on what he has to do and is prepared. This painting reflects his sense of purpose—his gaze is straightforward and determined. His followers talk among themselves and appear confused and uncertain—they will follow the whim of the crowds who are already overtaking them and placing palms beneath Jesus. But Jesus knows he goes to Jerusalem to suffer and die.

What preparations must we make to walk with Jesus through his passion with a steady heart? How are we preparing to embrace our own death, that one day we might live in him?