As I read and reflected on the readings for this Palm/Passion Sunday, the words that came to mind were ‘humility’ and ‘ordinary people’.

Jesus accepted in humility all that was happening in accordance with prophecy and his Father’s will. It was others who acclaimed him on the way into Jerusalem. And others still who recognised him, for who he is, at various stages. Ordinary people responding to what they saw/experienced and came to know and understand.

The crowds who acclaimed him on the road were responding to what was happening, as were the crowds who called for his death. (as an aside I imagine that while there may have been some people in both, these were different crowds).

There were other ordinary people who despite the confusion and fear of the times recognised Jesus, and believed and acted. The women who stayed to the end. The soldiers who first mocked; then later recognised him as the ‘Son of god’.  Joseph of Arimathea who supplied the tomb.

It was a time of confusion and fear for these early followers of Christ. In the confusion and fear that is so prevalent in the world today, may we ordinary people that we are, see this holy week as a time of humble witness to our faith , to those around us.

Angela Coleman