Remember how your heart fluttered with a new relationship? The tingling feelings that emanated from head to toe. Or perhaps, you were attending a concert and the rush of emotions from the crowd, the noise, the cheers pushed your excitement to a new high. What did the new believers and followers of our Lord think, as He humbly entered Jerusalem, riding on a donkey? The crowd cheered, the newest followers were awed. The anticipation and excitement reached new heights, palms were strewn in the pathway. Some folks were probably closer than they had ever been to Him. Waving and cheering or simply staring, the crowds pushed and gathered nearer to Him.

        How do you feel? This season of reflections, contemplation and anticipation should generate all of those aforementioned feelings. Jesus was humble yet triumphant as He entered Jerusalem.  His message was spreading.  The good news of the Messiah was reaching those in distant areas. Baptisms were happening. Miracles had occurred. The curiosity seekers, the newly transformed believers of His truth, the naysayers, were all in attendance, watching and “feeling” the power move among them.

        Allow yourself to revisit those same flutters and tingles as you prepare your way to Holy Week and the remembrances for His death and resurrection. See yourself along the palm strewn pathway, inching forward for a glimpse of your Lord.  His unconditional love envelopes you on this journey. Celebrate Him with praise and thanksgiving.

        As an infant, I was baptized on a Palm Sunday, and always “celebrate” my closeness with Jesus on this day. May the Holy Spirit whisper feelings of anticipation for you Palm Sunday!

Jill