03/29/2026
GOSPEL MESSAGE
March 29, 2026-SUNDAY OF THE PASSION / PALM SUNDAY
His Blood Be on Us
Today we begin Holy Week, a week filled with paradoxes, reversals, and ironic twists. The story moves inevitably toward death, yet it brings the promise of life. Jesus appears to be the victim, but he chooses this path, humbling himself, confident that God will exalt him in victory. Pilate embodies the full might of the Roman Empire but is powerless before the crowd’s demands. The chief priests and elders, perhaps more than anyone else, should recognize the long-hoped-for Messiah, but their jealousy prevents this.
Perhaps the greatest irony in today’s Passion reading is found in the crowd’s exclamation, “His blood be on us and on our children!” (Matthew 27:25). These words have been misused to slander the Jewish people, claiming they bear the guilt of Christ’s blood. Superficially, that is what the crowd means: Pilate refuses responsibility, so the people take it upon themselves. Theologically, though, the crowd speaks a universal truth. Far from justifying anti-Jewish scapegoating, these words apply to all humanity. Somehow we are all implicated in the death of Jesus. Our rebellion, our sin, places him on the cross.
Paradoxically, however, the crowd’s words also reveal a deeper truth. The blood of Christ does not mark with condemnation; it promises forgiveness. It does not stain with guilt; it washes sin away. By accepting suffering and death at the hands of sinners, Jesus wins the victory of love. His blood be on us, indeed! Just as we all share guilt in the crucifixion of Jesus, so too are we all granted mercy by his self-giving death. United in baptism to his death and resurrection, receiving his body and blood in communion, we receive grace, freedom, and life.
In the days to come, do not look at these contradictions as puzzles to be solved. They are mysteries beyond full understanding. But as you contemplate the events of Holy Week, you will discover new depths of God’s love for you. May his blood be upon us all, with mercy and salvation.
From sundaysandseasons.com.
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