Lord Open My Lips and My Mouth will Proclaim Your Praise.
As we celebrate Palm Sunday, the beginning of Holy Week, let us reflect on
the prophet’s Isaiah’s powerful message in the first reading. The Lord God has
given us the gift of a well-trained tongue to speak words that will uplift and inspire
weary souls. We are called to use our words to glorify God, proclaim the good
news, and comfort those who need solace and encouragement.
In our lives, it is easy to fall into the trap of using our tongues carelessly,
engaging in gossip, spreading rumors, or speaking words that hurt rather than
heal. However, as followers of Christ, we are called to follow the example set by
Jesus, who used His words to teach, comfort, and bring hope to the oppressed.
When we fail to treat our brothers and sisters with love and respect, we are
reminded of the words Jesus spoke in the Gospel: “Let her alone. Why do you
make trouble for her?” These words are a reminder that we are called to love one
another as God loves us, with compassion, forgiveness, and understanding.
As we journey through this Holy Week, let us strive to embody the spirit of
the Cyrenian who assisted Jesus in carrying His Cross. This act of service and
compassion is a model for us to imitate. We are called to aid our brothers and
sisters in need, whether within our parish family or our wider community. By
extending a helping hand, lending a listening ear, or providing support to those
who bear burdens, we can contribute to building a more loving and caring family,
community, and world.
Let us use this Holy Week as an opportunity for personal growth and
transformation. It is a time for deep reflection on our words and actions, an
occasion to examine whether they align with Jesus’ teachings. Are we using our
tongues to glorify God and spread His love? Are we treating others with kindness
and respect, as God desires? These questions prompt us to deepen our
understanding of living out our faith in practical ways.Fr. Dominic Toan Tran, Pastor
Dear brothers and sisters, as we wave our palm branches and shout
“Hosanna” to celebrate Jesus’ triumphal entry into Jerusalem, let us also take to
heart the more profound message of humility, sacrifice, and service that Palm
Sunday represents. May we be inspired to follow in the footsteps of Christ, who
humbly laid down His life for the salvation of all humanity. Let us proclaim the
good news and bring hope to the weary and follow Jesus’ example by serving
and supporting one another. As we rejoice in the Easter celebration, may our
hearts overflow with gratitude, humility, and a renewed commitment to live out
our faith each day.