“We need these palms as a reminder—and a challenge”

We need these palms as a reminder – and a challenge.

They remind us that we are called to be heralds of Christ – to celebrate him the way they did that day in Jerusalem.

And these palms challenge us to keep crying “Hosanna,” to keep proclaiming the Good News – even when the world tempts us to do otherwise, even when it seems like it would be easier to go with the crowd and simply choose Barabbas.

These palms challenge us to not turn our back and walk away. They challenge us to not step over Christ, or ignore him. And they challenge us not only to remember what we have done to him, but what he has done for us.

That is what this week is about.

Before we look ahead to next Sunday, and the big plans and the big meal, look back. And look within.

And look to these palms.

Look at what we are called to do…and who we are called to be.

— Homily from Palm Sunday, 2012.

Read it all.