The Donkey...The Palms

Today Jesus enters Jerusalem in triumph and Glory, but also in peace.

The Donkey:

The symblism of the donkey may refer to the Eastern tradition that it is an animal of peace in contrast to the prancing horse always ridden be conquerers.

The Palms

In ancientien times the palm branches symbolized

goodness and victory. They were often depictd on coins and important buildings. Solomon had palm branches carved into the walls and doors of the temple.

In the book of Revelation, the Saved will have palm branches in hand.

The Abysinian Jackass is the bearer of a distinctive cross on its back. We once had one at St. James Parish on Palm Sunday. The Deacon was heard to remark:"It was quite a spectcle: the Pastor dragging his Ass across the Parking Lot!"

Thus a lighter note for a Sunday that once brought smiles to the people witnessing Christ's entry into Jerusalm.

Darker days will follow.

Holy Week offers each of us the opportunity to meditate on the meaning of the Cross in our lives, and so we pray:

We adore thee O Christ

and we bless thee,

because by thy Holy Cross, thou has saved the world.

Amen