The Shadow of the Cross

As we enter Holy Week on Palm Sunday, a jarring pivot is about to take place in Jesus’ ministry. The acclamation “Hosanna” today will become an angry, bloodthirsty shout by Friday; “God, save us!” (the meaning of the word Hosanna), will become, “God, damn him!”; and within a week, palm branches will become the rough wood of a Roman cross.

The poignant and dramatic juxtaposition of triumphal entry and crucifixion in the lectionary readings seeks to prepare us to live out the Holy Week ahead—and hopefully the entirety of our lives—in the shadow of the cross of Christ.