2 April, 2023
So they took branches of palm trees and went out to meet him, crying out, “Hosanna! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord, even the King of Israel!” – John 12 : 13
Almighty God, we offer you thanks, for you are good, and your mercy is endless. At the start of this holy week, in which your Church remembers Jesus’ passion and death, we turn our eyes to focus on the Messiah, the One who comes in your Name, who opens the gates of heavenly righteousness and answers when we call. We bless you, Lord, for shining your light upon us and for sending your son to us, in human frailty, to walk the road we walk. Open our eyes that he may be revealed to us, as the embodiment of purity, sanctity and righteousness.
Open our minds that we may choose to walk in the way of his suffering and share also in his death and resurrection. On this day of great rejoicing, Lord Jesus Christ, when we welcome You as our King and Savior, we also walk in the shadow of Your cross. Hosanna! We cry! Blessed are You who come in God’s name to save us. Hosanna! Hosanna in the highest! Jesus, the very fount of holiness, grant us pardon for our transgressions.
Strengthen our faith on this Palm Sunday so that when the time comes to carry our cross we might still call out to You with heartfelt praise. Give us the grace and the courage to follow You this Holy Week from death to resurrection, from darkness to the fullness of light. God, may we walk in your ways, through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God for ever and ever. Amen
