Daily Devotional: How Is Palm Sunday Celebrated at Your Church?

Hey fabulous friends! Welcome back! Today, we're diving into the daily devotional, sharing a quick uplifting thought to brighten your day. For many, Palm Sunday might involve children waving palm branches or an organ playing processional music. Others might experience solemn sermons, or perhaps you don’t attend church and are unfamiliar with the day’s significance.

However, the original Palm Sunday was much more than that.

In Matthew's account, Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem occurs at a pivotal moment in his ministry. He has been traveling throughout the region, sharing his vision of a Kingdom that contrasts sharply with the Roman Empire—a Kingdom dedicated to liberating the oppressed, healing the sick, and ensuring everyone’s well-being. This is a realm where the meek are honoured, peace is cherished, and the marginalised are cared for.

With a growing following, Jesus heads toward Jerusalem, the heart of Jewish life. Its significance means it was also a place the Romans worked hard to keep under control.

As Passover neared, Roman authorities, including Pontius Pilate, were dispatched to maintain order and prevent any uprisings. This situation echoes modern responses to social justice movements like Black Lives Matter.

Amid this tension, Jesus rode into the city on a donkey, flanked by the poor, working-class individuals, women, and social outcasts. This was a bold act against the occupying forces, a challenge to the status quo—an assertive yet nonviolent protest.

A powerful image comes from the documentary How To Survive A Plague, showing AIDS activists unveiling a massive quilt on the National Mall, honouring those lost to the epidemic. In October 1992, a passionate group marched to the White House, carrying the ashes of their loved ones, chanting for justice and remembrance.

This is what Palm Sunday resembled—defiant, hopeful, and deeply emotional. A demonstration by the marginalised that sent ripples of change through history.

Just like the sit-ins of the 1960s and countless other protests, Palm Sunday is an invitation:

Which procession do you choose to join?

Will you follow the Kingdom of Empire, which seeks “peace” through might and privilege? Or will you align with the Kingdom of God, which offers freedom, justice, and abundance for all?

This question remains incredibly relevant today.

When we connect these ancient stories with current events, our understanding of Palm Sunday deepens, linking our present struggles to a long-standing, sacred narrative.

So, which path do you choose: Pilate’s procession or Christ’s?

Do we participate in military parades, align with corporate interests, or support the status quo? Or do we march alongside movements for justice, like Rainbow Community Angels or Free Palestine? Do we hoard resources, or do we share generously?

The choice is crucial, as Jesus later demonstrates that such decisions can carry significant consequences.

Reflection Questions:

How does viewing Palm Sunday as a protest alter your perspective?

What current moment in your life reflects a Palm Sunday experience?

What are the risks and rewards of joining this processional?

How might you change your life in response to this message?

Practical Exercises:

Watch How To Survive A Plague.

Attend a local meeting for a justice-oriented group.

Look for nonviolence or civil disobedience training opportunities.

That wraps up today's devotional session! I trust this message has infused your day with positivity. If it connected with you, please show your support by liking this video and subscribing for more inspiring content. Thank you for being here today, and always celebrate your individuality! Stay well and keep a positive outlook until next time!

Footnotes:

Source: Kearns, S., & Murphy, B. (2020). "Queers the Word" - (Adapted for reflection of Jesus Comes to Jerusalem as King). Scripture: Matthew 21:1-11

Image Title: "Sacred Resistance" Source: Midjourney’s image generation model.

These daily devotionals are intended for personal inspiration and may be shared as needed, including via our RSS feed. Interpretations may vary, so we encourage thoughtful engagement with the content. Please attribute appropriately when sharing to maintain integrity.