Reflection on the Gospel: Jesus arrives in Jerusalem

During the six weeks of Lent 2020, Bishop Donal McKeown invites us, as individuals, as families and parish faith communities of the Diocese of Derry, to use the six Sunday Gospels of Lent to look at the life of service to which God is calling all of us, as the 2020 disciples of Jesus.

Priests and parishioners of the diocese are asked to create opportunities in their parish for discussion of each Gospel reflection.

Bishop Donal's sixth reflection for consideration is outlined below.

Sixth Sunday of Lent - Jesus arrives in Jerusalem 

The Gospel of the sixth Sunday of Lent 2020 can be viewed here on CatholicIreland.Net

Reflection by Bishop Donal

Today is the culmination of Jesus' journey from Galilee. He comes into Jerusalem, true to His simple lifestyle.He is welcomed by the ordinary, the little ones. He is prepared to face those who hate and reject what He stands for. He is prepared to pay the price for standing for the truth – because truth cannot be overcome. Jesus began His ministry by resisting temptations to take the easy path and He ended His ministry resisting temptations and submitting to the will of God the Father.

Reflections for discussion and consideration:

1. Our focus this week is the Way of the Cross. In these extraordinary times, many people are carrying the cross of sickness, bereavement, fear or worry. So many families are struggling in so many different ways.
   
   How does the Way of the Cross help us – and help us to help others – in facing the many crosses of these uncertain times?
   
   
2. As we enter the holiest of weeks in the Church calendar, our minds are buzzing with all that is going on in the world around us. In the midst of it, the closest we can get to experiencing the Holy Week ceremonies is to press a button on our computer or radio in our homes. Despite these realities, the events of the Paschal Mystery are unchanging - Truth does not change.
   
   In all of the confusion in which we find ourselves, how does the journey of Jesus to the Cross enable us to stand up for the Message of the Gospel?
   
   
3. Jesus shows us that He is the Resurrection.
   
   How does the Passion story speak to you as a revelation of how God loves you?
   
   How does it reassure you, as God's child, baptised into the Holy Trinity, that you are privileged to share in His immortal life?

Liturgy music suggestions for Palm Sunday, 5 April 

Diocesan Prayer for Lent 2020 

• Reflection on the Gospel: The Raising of Lazarus
• Reflection on the Gospel: Jesus Heals the Blind Man
• Reflection on the Gospel: The Samaritan Woman at the Well
• Reflection on the Gospel: The Temptation in the Wilderness
• Reflection on the Gospel: The Transfiguration