Yesterday, Holy Week began with the observance of Palm Sunday. The first part of the liturgy, which is the liturgy of the word, began at the parish patio, followed by the blessing of the palms and the procession to start the mass accompanied by the singing angels, then a "Sinakulo" during the gospel by the Parish Youth Ministry.
Father Ferdinand C. Delatado shared in his homily the reason why Jesus came and the four concepts we need to contemplate this Palm Sunday.
He started by explaining the context and situation of the Israelites before Jesus went to Jerusalem. Since they are being occupied, they see Jesus as their King that will free them from persecution.
“There is a longing in their hearts, that there will be a leader who will liberate them from oppression.”
However, this is not why Jesus came instead, he came to establish the kingdom of God. Similar to the Jews, may we not be confused in comprehending what we celebrate today.
The four concepts we need to contemplate are:
First, Ang palaspas ay hindi panlabas. Much of the world is external, and the external is instantly fading. Hence we must seek the one that does not fade. Similar to our celebration of Palm Sunday is the Feast of Tents or “Sukkot” of the Jews. Wherein they bring branches of Palms to commemorate the 40 years' journey of their descendants in the desert. There they live and travel, and when needed to rest, they build tents that are made up of palms. After they take a rest, they dismantle them and continue their journey. This feast is significant because this is a reminder that we always have to move forward and continue our journeys. The world is only our home temporarily. All that we have are transient. That is why we need to contemplate and find the things that are not external that fade.
Second, Palaspas, hindi paspas. To others, this week is their cue to go on outings and gimmicks. However, let us also keep in mind not to be swift on these events because Holy Week is the season of silence. To feel the Lord's presence and sacrifices for us, to encourage us to pray and hear his voice.
Fr. Ferdinand advised us to, “Refrain from being loud, to keep quiet, and seek God’s admiration.”
Third, Palaspas, hindi dahas. According to the gospel, when Jesus entered Jerusalem, he rode a donkey instead of a horse. Since a horse symbolizes power, may it be in the military or political. And God commanded that Jesus must ride a donkey because a donkey is not used in war rather, it is used in labor. And this is the reason why the donkey has been a symbol of peace. God wants to convey to us that his rule is not a political form of leadership but done for God, Jesus is the prince of peace. We proved that violence is not God’s way but peace.
Fourth, Palaspas ay hindi para kay Barabbas. Conforming to the gospel, when the people were asked who to free among Barabbas and Jesus, they chose Barabbas who's guilty of being a criminal. This week reminds us to contemplate and choose the right people, especially in this election. May we practice our power to choose the people we will vote for that is responsible for the betterment of our country and the people.
Fr. Ferdinand concluded his homily by reiterating that the Palm Sunday is not external that easily fades, it also means it is the time for silence, a symbol of peace, and a reminder to choose the people who have a blessing from God.
Article by: Athea Baranda
Photo by: Tom Valientes
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