Nigerian Bishop, Emmanuel Badejo, of Oyo Diocese shares his views about what Palm Sunday is saying to our world today.
Vatican News English Africa Service.
What do you think makes Palm Sunday special?
Palm Sunday is the celebration of the triumphal entry of Jesus Christ into Jerusalem, where he was to be crucified. Also known as Passion Sunday, it marks the beginning of Holy Week, the holiest week in Christendom. Christians celebrate the most intense moments of the Passion, Death and Resurrection of Jesus Christ. It is the first Sunday during the year when believers hear a full account of the Passion, Death and Resurrection of Jesus Christ during worship together.
What would you say, what is the special significance of this Sunday?
The Bible teaches that Jesus persevered on his way to Jerusalem, despite fate awaited him, and boldly spoke the truth while there. Coming out to meet him in procession and triumph, believers took palm leaves and branches in his honor, as we do today. The gesture is a symbol of victory and well-being. The palm tree is generally considered a provider of shade, shelter, beauty, grand dignity and even nourishment. Therefore, carrying it is a prayer and a wish for the stability of life and humanity. In Jerusalem, people threw their palms in the way of Jesus in recognition of him as a ministerial leader and king.
What could be an important message of Palm Sunday for our world today?
Palm Sunday and its association with the Passion of Jesus Christ remind us all that true glory is found only in self-giving and sacrifice. Sadly, many parts of the world today are in turmoil and are plagued by selfish and unjust leaders. For example, in Nigeria, the only things that seem sustainable are corruption, injustice, hypocrisy, and impunity in places high and low. However, the country needs courageous servant-leaders and individuals who, like Jesus, boldly speak the truth and live by it.
As Christians, what is our role?
Christians, Muslims and all others, wearing the robes of truth and justice in this Jerusalem, must at all times ride the colt of courage and speak the truth to all who suppress it. Jesus' triumphant entry into Jerusalem affirms God's sovereignty over all other powers. It challenges all leaders to lead with the fear of God, to lay down their lives in service and not to exploit and destroy their own people for their own sake. It also invites all citizens to recognize, appreciate and support good, selfless leaders working for peace and reconciliation. Like palm branches, we should all be carriers of shelter, beauty, life and sustenance to those we meet.