Holy Week Reflections: Palm Sunday

"And as He was now drawing nigh, even at the descent of the mount of Olives, the whole multitude of the disciples began to rejoice and praise God with a loud voice for all the mighty works which they had seen; saying, 'Blessed is the King that cometh in the name of the Lord: peace in heaven, and glory in the highest.' And some of the Pharisees from the multitude said unto Him, 'Teacher, rebuke thy disciples.' And He answered and said, 'I tell you that, if these shall hold their peace, the stones will cry out.'" (Luke 19:37-40, ASV)

Palm Sunday is probably best known for the palm branches spread before Jesus on his triumphal entry into Jerusalem a week before His Crucifixion. I wonder sometimes what must have passed through His mind as He and His disciples made their way down the hill from Bethany into the city where He would die.

One indication of His thoughts happens when the Pharisees wants Him to quiet the multitudes following the procession. Did He feel amusement? Scorn? Sorrow? The Bible doesn't say, but I can feature Him chuckling at the Pharisees demand, maybe at the same time He felt sorrow because these guys just didn't get it.

I think sometimes we "just don't get it," either. This was a moment so unbelievably profound. Do you understand what He just said? That there is absolutely no way to stop His disciples--then and now--from voicing their joy and love and appreciation to God. Shut us up, and the rocks will begin singing!