Rev Paige's Corner: Two Processions
This week in worship, we are remembering the story of Palm Sunday and the week that it began. Some years ago, Marcus Borg and John Crossan wrote a book, The Last Week. They shared that during the Passover Celebration in Jerusalem, the Roman empire was very concerned about security and the possibility of an uprising and revolt, so they always increased security and the visual presences of military force. Borg and Crossan imagined that it was possible that through one gate marched the military might meant to intimidate. Through another gate came Jesus, on a humble donkey, to shouts of "Hossanna!" The contrast would have been striking.
Amanda Udis-Kessler wrote a hymn inspired by this understanding:
Two processions entering Jerusalem,
Two opposing kingdoms on display.
Which of these processions are we part of?
Which one will we follow on its way?
Will we shout “Hail Pilate” or “Hosanna”
When we have a choice whose praise to sing?
Will we trust the violent mighty ruler?
Will we trust the peaceful peasant king?
Two processions entering Jerusalem,
Power of love against the love of power.
Will we choose the path of domination?
Will we let compassion have its hour?
God has had a dream of joyful justice.
Rome has spun a nightmare of neglect.
If we join the commonwealth of servants
We may bring God’s joy and justice yet.
Two processions entering Jerusalem:
Realm of hope, dominion built on fear.
As we choose the path that love has opened,
We will see the realm of hope draw near.
People of faith in those days and in these have choices. Jesus offers us another way. As we enter Holy Week, it seems to me there is much to reflect and pray about as we consider these choices.
With blessings!
Rev Paige Besse-Rankin
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