After the Parade of Palms – Lectio Divina

The people gave him a wonderful welcome, some throwing their coats on the street, others spreading out rushes they had cut in the fields. Running ahead and following after, they were calling out, 

   

Hosanna! 


Blessed is he who comes in God's name! 


Blessed the coming kingdom of our father David! 


Hosanna in highest heaven!

He entered Jerusalem, then entered the Temple. 
He looked around, taking it all in. 

Mark 11: 8-11a (The Message)

He looked around, taking it all in.

Lord, I hear once again about Your triumphant entry into Jerusalem.

We hold our palms in church and wave them as we enter with the first hymn.

I listen to the words from Mark, joining the multitude with a loud Hosanna!

But when I reread these words later – I notice one person not saying anything – You.

No comment.

No grand speech to match the cheering crowd.

No memorable lines to put on a plaque or copy to Pinterest.

You were silent.

He entered Jerusalem, then entered the Temple. He looked around, taking it all in. 

You looked around, storing the memory of that day.

What were You thinking, Lord?

You knew what the rest of week held – unspeakable suffering, betrayal and pain.

Did each Hosanna hurt You like the imminent wounds searing across Your back?

Did our praises taste bitter, knowing we would soon shout, “Crucify him!”?

Did our cheers pierce Your heart, Lord?

When You looked around at Your temple, did You see us, Your church?

Your people – full of sin, frail and weak.

Your wandering children, following after the bright shining shams of the world.

Your lost sheep – seeking greener grass over the hill, far from home.

What were You thinking, Lord?

A terrible week stretched out before You.

You knew what would happen.

You knew the whole story.

You knew the ending.

You knew who won.

What were You thinking, Lord?

I heard You quietly answer:

“I was thinking how much I love you.”