Palm Sunday swings into view this Sunday and I hope you can join us!  Palm Sunday is cause for celebration as we remember Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem.

On closer inspection, though, it also gives us cause to look deeper.

The crowd that gathered to welcome Jesus into Jerusalem was spontaneous, local, loud, and energized.  Cloaks were thrown on the road!  Branches were waved in the air!  Voices shouted, “Hosanna!” 

It was a moment that spread quickly, drawing people in.  You might even say it went viral.

Of course, we all know that this crowd of well-wishers turned out to be fickle.  The same energy that lifts someone up can just as quickly fade or turn in the opposite direction.  The voices that shout praise one day can grow quiet or worse the next. 

Palm Sunday reminds us that it’s easy to get caught up in a moment, to join the noise, to follow the movement without fully understanding where it leads.

Sound familiar?

In a world shaped by trending topics, viral moments, and quick reactions, Palm Sunday invites us to pause and reflect.  Are we simply part of the crowd that responds to whatever captures our attention in the moment?  Or are we committed followers who are willing to stay present even when the excitement fades and the path becomes more difficult?

Our faith calls us beyond the quick reaction.  It is more than just “Hey, let’s go join in with those people cheering for Jesus over there.”  It calls us into a deeper commitment, a quieter courage, and a lasting presence.

That’s because real discipleship isn’t just about showing up for the parade it’s about staying for the journey.  And that journey can lead to some unexpected places: Places of hardship, betrayal, pain, and even death itself.  

Staying true to the journey rather than the parade will, however, lead to something beyond astounding.  It will lead to resurrection, life-abundant, and full communion with God.

As we enter Holy Week, I hope you will join us for the parade and stay for the journey; a journey that leads us through the crucifixion to the resurrection on Easter morning.

See you in church,
–Rev. Dominic