You are there, today
We could easily be persuaded to think of Palm Sunday as a bit like Mardi Gras with a parade, rejoicing crowds, confetti, and even a king to be honored! Yet, upon closer inspection and reading between the lines, we can see it likely felt more like a roller coaster for those intimately involved.
Using St. Ignatius’ style of imaginative contemplation for the initial reading, we are jostled within the crowd, standing on tiptoe to see over the shoulders of those in front of us, straining to see the main attraction, the One riding the donkey. For the next reading we peer into the heart of Jesus — as he reminds himself why he is navigating the crowds on this day. The Psalm whips us onward to Golgotha where we hear Jesus’ anguished pleas to the One he deeply loves: “Why THIS way? Why do you feel so removed, my God, and I, so alone?” Up and down, left and right we are manhandled as we traverse the interior experience of the King of Kings. Ultimately, the rollercoaster slows to a stop as we spill out into the familiar scene in the upper room for the last meal Jesus will share with his friends before he dies.
Where do you see yourself – find yourself – in this scene? Are you the one who serves, washing the feet of those who enter, or carrying the plates laden with savory, home-prepared food to each of the apostles? Do you clear the dishes and refill the cups at each place? Do you hear the conversation and banter, ultimately sweeping up and wiping down as they leave together for the Garden of Olives?
Of course. Of course you serve, and wash, and listen, and lift, and clean up after this meal…because that is what you do every single day that you work for Catholic Charities. You are present for every rollercoaster ride that humanity brings to your door. The twists and turns that life serves with gusto often leave our clients disoriented and breathless. Your attentiveness nourishes, and sustains, and stabilizes.
As the donkey passes your place in the crowd, Jesus looks over and catches your eye – and holds it. Gratitude is in his expression. You are there for him, today. You are there for everyone he sends to you, staff or client, each day you serve him with a heart that is so like his own.
Monique Jacobs, MS, is Director of Mission and Identity at Catholic Charities of Northern Nevada.