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Many people spread their cloaks on the road, while others spread branches they had cut in the fields. Those who went ahead and those who followed shouted, ‘Hosanna!’ ‘Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!’ ‘Blessed is the coming kingdom of our father David!’ ‘Hosanna in the highest heaven!’ (Mark 11:8-10)
This Sunday is Palm Sunday, where we particularly remember Jesus’ triumphal entry into Jerusalem. The people welcome Jesus as a king, but what kind of king is he? Is he a conquering king, a loving king? How will he use his power?
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Now there were some Greeks … They came to Philip, who was from Bethsaida in Galilee, with a request. ‘Sir,’ they said, ‘we would like to see Jesus.’ (John 12:20-21)
In John’s gospel, this meeting marks the start of Jesus heading to Jerusalem and his death. Why does Jesus need to do this? What will he achieve? What does it change for us?
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Hannah said to Eli, ‘Pardon me, my lord. As surely as you live, I am the woman who stood here beside you praying to the Lord. I prayed for this child, and the Lord has granted me what I asked of him. So now I give him to the Lord. For his whole life he shall be given over to the Lord.’ (1 Samuel 1:26-28)
This Sunday is Mothering Sunday, originally a day for people to return to their mother church. This might be their home church, cathedral, or the nearest large church. A day to recall their introduction to the Christian faith. More recently, this has become synonymous with Mother’s Day: a day to recall and celebrate the impact mothers have on our lives, and to celebrate family life.
In our readings, we’ll read about Hannah, who gave up her firstborn son and Mary who, as her son was dying, had a new family provided for her. We see how God provides for his people, and how he cares for us.
We’re also being joined by Northaw School’s Choir.
Photo by Alicia Quan on Unsplash
let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith (Hebrews 12:1-2)
As we move through Lent, we’re taking a short break from looking at the Nicene Creed, and focussing on getting ready for Easter. We’re starting by reminding ourselves that Jesus is the main character of the Bible, and that we are in there as well.
[Jesus] ascended into heaven and is seated at the right hand of the Father (The Nicene Creed)
We’re spending Sunday mornings looking at the Nicene Creed - one of the summaries of the Christian faith. We’re continuing in the largest section - the one about Jesus Christ - and looking at Jesus’ ascension. Where is Jesus now? Why did he leave us? Is this good news or not?