# Accompanying Jesus through Holy Week
*2017-04-09*

> Bill Young reflects on the significance of Palm Sunday and the journey toward the Resurrection, drawing on the teachings of Pope Francis.

## The Example of the Humble Servant

Today is Palm Sunday, April 9th, 2017. In reflecting on the scriptures for this day, we are reminded to have the same attitude as Jesus Christ, who, though He was in the form of God, did not regard equality with God as something to be grasped. Instead, He took on the form of a humble servant. Jesus serves as our guide and example through these final days leading to His Passion, death, and resurrection. As we enter this holy week, we should ask ourselves if we are ready to humble ourselves to serve others just as Christ did.

## Accompanying the Lord

Drawing from the reflections of Pope Francis in 'Lent: A Time of Grace,' we see Jesus entering Jerusalem amidst crowds celebrating with praise, blessing, and joy. Jesus awakens great hope, especially in the hearts of the simple, the humble, the poor, and the forgotten—those who do not matter in the eyes of the world. He understands human suffering and shows us the face of God's mercy. When we wave our palms and olive branches at Mass, we are welcoming Him and expressing our joy in accompanying Him. Most importantly, we recognize that He accompanies us, carrying us on His shoulders. This is our joy and the hope we must bring to the world.

## Preparing for the Triduum

Holy Week is a vital time in the church calendar. From the Mass of the Lord's Supper on Thursday to Good Friday and finally the joy of Easter Sunday, there are many opportunities to spend more time with God. I encourage everyone to make their confession if they haven't been recently, as we prepare our hearts for the Risen Christ.

## Prayer and Intercession

In the spirit of this week, we pray the Sorrowful Mysteries of the Rosary, meditating on the Agony in the Garden, the Scourging at the Pillar, the Crowning with Thorns, the Carrying of the Cross, and the Crucifixion. We also join in prayer for the beatification of Frank Duff, founder of the Legion of Mary, and Venerable Adele Quinn. I offer special intercessions for those who are homebound or in the hospital, and for the prodigal sons and daughters who may be far from the faith, that they may return to the Lord with open arms.

*As we journey through Holy Week, let us follow the example of Christ's humility and find joy in the knowledge that He accompanies us on our own spiritual journeys.*