Embracing Padaroxes
He emptied himself, taking the form of a slave, coming in human likeness... - Phil 2:6-11
Palm Sunday, with its images of Jesus riding into Jerusalem on a donkey, greeted by cheering crowds and waving palm branches, holds a certain allure. It is a scene that embodies celebration, anticipation, and hope. But as we delve deeper into the story, I cannot help but feel the weight of its underlying truth. Amid all the excitement and adulation, there is an unmistakable sense of paradox. Here are the crowds, shouting “Hosanna!” one moment and crying out for his crucifixion the next. It’s a reminder that human nature is complex, that our allegiances can shift with the wind, and that the road to glory often leads through valleys of humility and sacrifice.
Whether hiking through the wilderness or navigating the ups and downs of everyday life, we are presented with choices that compel us to delve into the depths of our being to uncover our most authentic selves. There are moments akin to Jesus riding on that humble donkey, urging us to embrace humility and simplicity in defiance of societal norms. Yet, there are also instances when we are beckoned to stand firm in our convictions, even when it means going against the tide.
As I reflect on Palm Sunday in the context of my journey, I am reminded of the times when I have had to navigate similar paradoxes. Moments when the path ahead seemed uncertain, it was a choice between the easy and right way, between the comfort of familiarity and the courage to step into the unknown. In those junctures, I offer myself a chance to pause, calm my mind and heart, and ask God, “Are You saying yes, no, slow, or grow?” In this question, I have generally encountered peace in letting go of my self-reliance and allowing God to lead me through the “how” while helping me grow with the quiet strength of integrity and authenticity.
Lord, guide me in nurturing a humble and selfless spirit as I engage in the gentle labor of love and compassion, hand in hand with You.
Tam Lontok