Sunday, April 10
Lent 6 Reflection Guide – When God Needs Us
Palm Sunday
Opening
Share a memorable parade experience of yours.
Scripture
Luke 19:28-40
Scripture Reflection
Palm Sunday is the beginning of the highest and holiest week of the Christian year. It is a time when we remember the central event of our faith – Christ’s death and resurrection. Though Jesus had been telling the disciples what was coming, they were not ready for what was about to unfold. In order for things to work out the way God intended, Jesus needed helped from the disciples. They were the ones sent to get the colt, they were the ones sent to secure a room for Passover and what would become the Last Supper, they were the ones who would turn him over to the authorities and later deny knowing him. Just as Jesus needed his disciples to help live out God’s plans, he needs us to carry on his work today. When we offer what we have, we join our voices with those from all ages proclaiming, “Blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord! Hosanna in the highest!”
Moment of Silent Reflection
Spend one full minute in silence as you consider the scripture and reflection.
Turn to Wonder
Place yourself in the story of Palm Sunday. What do you notice? What would you tell the crowd shouting “Blessed is the king who comes in the name of the Lord”? What would you like to tell the group of Pharisees trying to calm the crowds? What would you say to Jesus?
Kings and Caesars would ride warhorses into cities as signs of victory. What point is Luke emphasizing by noting that Jesus rode into town on a colt?1
What point is Luke emphasizing by observing that the people placed cloaks before Jesus (and not waving palm branches as in other gospel accounts)?2
What spiritual gifts, skills, and/or talents might God be needing from you? How might God be calling you to share those gifts within the church and in the world?
How has this Lenten journey impacted you? What are you looking forward to during the coming Holy Week? How will you prepare for crucifixion? The Resurrection?
Closing
Close your time together in a manner that is typical for you. Consider sharing joys and prayer concerns, then close in prayer.
Lord,
We remember the journey you have taken as we commit ourselves to walking in the same way. Give us the strength, hope, and joy we need as we follow. Amen.
1It emphasizes that Jesus is a different kind of Messiah.
2Deemphasizing the joyous nature of Jesus’ arrival, it gives a more sacrificial and humble tone to the story. It also asks what we are willing to lay down for this Messiah.