Collect for Palm Sunday

Thank you joining me, this week we Lectio the Liturgy with the Collect for Palm Sunday. This prayer is used in both, the Extraordinary and the Ordinary Form of the mass this weekend. The prayer has been used on this day, Palm Sunday, since the eighth century.

Almighty ever-living God, who as an example of humility for the human race to follow, caused our Savior to take flesh and submit to the Cross, graciously grant that we may heed his lesson of patient suffering and so merit a share in his Resurrection. Who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God, for ever and ever.

In this prayer about humility, let’s start with one question, “What’s in it for me?” 

Answering that question truthfully can become a source for our own humility. What is in it for me? God caused, or brought to pass, his son to take on flesh and submit to the cross for me. For you. 

As I thought about those two things, I thought about the things I need. For example, I need a new pair of jeans. I need a new driveway. I also need a way to be cleansed of sin. We don’t often think of salvation in this way, but is there anything we need more than God’s forgiveness?

The Do, or the petition of the prayer, asks that we may deserve to have both, the lesson (or patience, endurance) of Jesus’ suffering and a share of (or fellowship in) his Resurrection. How can we do that? By imitating his humility.

To follow Jesus’ example of humility will require our cooperation. We don’t just sit back tell God what we want and hope for the best. We, too, have to put some skin in this game. Don’t worry, it’s not as painful as it sounds.

Jesus showed us humility in the incarnation. God, who created everything, even every color, became human and had to learn his colors. Little boy Jesus even had to learn how to feed himself.

In his adulthood, the lessons he lives and teaches about humility are gold. He loved others, he wanted the best for others. He did so because his desire was to please the Father. “So Jesus said to them, “I do nothing on my own, but I say only what the Father taught me,” and “I always do what is pleasing to [the Father].” (John 8:28-29)

Humility doesn’t mean we don’t care about ourselves or that we criticize ourselves. Humility doesn’t mean that we think less of ourselves. Jesus knew who he was and what he was about. 

Humility means we think of ourselves less. We care about others and we care for others in ways that will please God, just like Jesus cares for us.

Lectio the Liturgy: What’s on your Need List? If don’t already have a written list - start one today and add “Salvation” to the list. How does that change the way you look ahead to Holy Week? Also, ask God for the opportunity to practice humility, to think of others more than yourself, this week.

Thanks for praying with me,
Julie