Palm Sunday holds a special place in the hearts of Catholics around the world. It marks the beginning of Holy Week, commemorating Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem. For me, Palm Sunday became even more meaningful when I experienced it through the eyes of my son, Brogan, when he was just four years old.
I remember Palm Sunday vividly. The church was adorned with palm branches, and the congregation was filled with a special joy felt on Palm Sunday! With his wide-eyed wonder, my son clutched his palm branch tightly. I cannot say that he was fascinated by the procession, the hymns, and the story of Jesus riding into Jerusalem on a donkey, but he did enjoy waving those palm branches around!
As we participated in the Mass, I couldn’t help but feel a deep connection to the Scripture. One passage that resonated with me was Matthew 21:9: “The crowds that went ahead of him and those that followed shouted, ‘Hosanna to the Son of David!’ ‘Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!’ ‘Hosanna in the highest heaven!’”
For a four-year-old, the concept of Palm Sunday might seem complex, but my son grasped the essence of it in his own innocent way. He saw the joy and celebration, the waving of palms, and the sense of community; I could see that he felt included in the celebration.
One moment that stands out was when he asked me, “Why are we waving these leaves?” I explained to him that palm branches symbolized victory and peace, just as the people of Jerusalem welcomed Jesus with them. His eyes lit up with understanding, and he waved his palm branch even more enthusiastically. Those sitting around us might have said a bit too enthusiastically!
Reflecting on that day, I am reminded of the Scripture from Matthew 19:14: “Jesus said, ‘Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.’” This verse beautifully captures the essence of faith through the eyes of a child. Their pure, unfiltered joy and trust are a testament to the kind of faith we are called to have.
Palm Sunday with my son taught me a valuable lesson in faith. It reminded me that sometimes, the simplest expressions of belief are the most profound. Watching him embrace the celebration with such innocence and joy was a powerful reminder of the beauty of childlike faith.
As we continue to observe Palm Sunday each year, I cherish the memory of that special day. It reminds me to approach my faith with the same enthusiasm and wonder that my son did. As he grows older, I hope he carries with him the lessons of Palm Sunday—the importance of welcoming Jesus into our hearts and celebrating His presence in our lives.
Palm Sunday is not just a day of tradition; it’s a day of heartfelt reflection and joyous celebration. Through the eyes of a child, we can rediscover the true meaning of faith and the beauty of welcoming Jesus into our lives.
On Palm Sunday, let the children wave their palms joyfully as the procession begins. Their enthusiasm and pure hearts will bring enthusiasm to the ceremony and inspire the congregation to embrace the occasion with renewed faith and unity. Parents, encourage your children to wave those palms and welcome Him with open hearts!