Weekly reflection for March 24, 2024 – 6th Sunday of Lent | Palm Sunday

Readings

Isaiah 50:4-7
Psalm (21 (22), 8-9, 17-18a, 19-20, 22c-24a)
Philippians 2:6-11
Mark 14:1 – 15:47
Mark 15:1-39 (short reading)

The Lord God has given me the tongue of a teacher, that I may know how to sustain the weary with a word.
― Isaiah 50:4

Resilience in times of trial

By Hadrien Gayap, Youth Ambassador in New-Brunswick

Palm Sunday marks the final stretch before Easter, which celebrates the Resurrection of Christ, the central element of the Christian faith. Today’s readings remind us of several important points for nurturing our relationship with God, as well as our relationship with our sisters and brothers.

The first reading reminds us that the success of our lives depends, among other things, on the quality of our relationships with our sisters and brothers. We must think of those who are exhausted and crushed under the weight of life. We must be attentive to the smallest and the poorest. This is what the prophet Isaiah underlines: “The Lord God has given me the tongue of a teacher, that I may know how to sustain the weary with a word. Morning by morning he wakens—wakens my ear to listen as those who are taught.”

These attitudes are reflected in the work of Development and Peace ― Caritas Canada’s partner, the Observatoire Tunisien de l’Économie (OTE), which, despite obstacles, promotes economic justice and democratic participation in Tunisia. OTE’s economic policy analyses equip Tunisians to better defend their economic rights, especially in unfavorable circumstances. Their work is a real source of hope and helps mobilize thousands of citizens, agricultural experts, members of civil society, parliamentarians, civil servants and journalists every year. This is a concrete example of listening to and supporting local communities.

Palm Sunday also calls us to humility. “The Lord God has opened my ear, and I was not rebellious, I did not turn backward,” says Prophet Isaiah. “Though he was in the form of God,” Jesus Christ, “emptied himself, taking the form of a slave, being born in human likeness,” says Saint Paul in his letter to the Philippians. “Humility goes before honour.” (Proverbs 15:33) Following the example of the humbled, triumphant Jesus Christ, we can give new meaning to a world that is losing its identity and bearings. Humility leads us to say to our sisters or brothers that we seek their forgiveness and to be quick to offer them forgiveness.

Humility helps us to take a step towards others, to see others as our neighbours and to love them.

In the Gospel, St. Mark’s account of the Passion can be seen as a symbol of deep commitment and sacrifice. It reminds us that true love takes on its full meaning in the gift of self to others. OTE’s work is an excellent demonstration of commitment and sacrifice. The participation of people who give their time and energy to democratize economic policies and advocate for a more equitable distribution of resources are fine examples of this.

In this last week of Lent, let us stand in solidarity with our sisters and brothers around the world who are showing resilience in the face of hardship. As we make our way towards Easter, let us walk together along paths of solidarity and sharing that allow us to grow closer to God and our neighbours!

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