Palm Sunday of the Lord’s Passion
One of the most gut-wrenching phrases uttered in the scriptures is spoken today in our responsorial psalm, “My God, My God, why have you abandoned me.” From the Cross, Jesus cries out these words, expressing his great anguish and pain. Hanging on the cross between two criminals, enduring torment by Roman soldiers, the betrayal of his closest companions, and the rejection of his people, now, it seems, God, his Father, has abandoned him. With nothing left, Christ gives up his spirit and dies.
There is no denying that life can contain suffering, moments of great anguish in which everything seems dark and lost. We may have had a husband or wife die in our arms, or we may have watched as a brother or sister drift away because of addiction; maybe, we have had our jobs taken and now are faced with destitution—in all of this, you ask, where is God? Does he not care that I suffer?
This feeling is no stranger to us, nor is it unexpected. Many great biblical characters and many great saints wondered the same. In their suffering, they cried out and were joined by another; their voice was united with Christ’s. In their times of crisis, the saints found companionship in Christ; they did not lose hope in God’s faithfulness. Christ was with them.
When we read its full text, the psalm also becomes a psalm of hope and trust. The prayer remembers God’s faithfulness of the past, his power, and the closeness of God despite the dire situation: “For he has not spurned or disdained the misery of this poor wretch, did not turn away from me, but heard me when I cried out. I will offer praise in the great assembly.”
As we approach this most sacred time of Holy Week, let us with confidence cry out in the anguish of life, let God know your troubles, hurts, and sufferings; join them to Christ on the cross as he calls out to his Father. Let us also walk with Christ in those words that hope in the Father’s help, realized on Easter morning and enjoyed for all eternity.
Reflection by Fr. Etienne Huard, OSB
Posted in Articles for Lent, Daily Reflections, Lenten Resources