Next week, most Christians will be keeping Holy Week when we remember Jesus’ dramatic arrival in Jerusalem, his death on the Cross, his resurrection on the first Easter Day and the other events of that week.
One point that has puzzled me is that we are told that a vast number of people cheered Jesus’ arrival in Jerusalem on a donkey, a symbol of peace, but a few days later the crowd was demanding that he be put to death.
How many people were in both crowds?
If so, what made them change their minds?
The last few weeks I have found events in this country and abroad very challenging. I find myself see-sawing between anger and hopelessness, particularly with regard to Ukraine.
I find myself being angry over the loss of life and the destruction of so large a number of buildings. I feel unable to do much that would help to resolve the problem.
All I can think of is to pray to God and ask him to bring peace to that country. I have sent a donation to help people there. What else can I do?
When I think about Holy Week and the crowd in Jerusalem I cannot help but wonder about my views. I try to keep an open mind, as I have no knowledge of the past history of the situation.
How can I avoid changing my views in line with the latest news releases?
Overall I have a sense of defeat. All I can think to do is to follow my initial instinct and commend the problem to God and his mercy.
This would be true of any of the serious problems that challenge us.
The Revd Peter Grosse, Hon. Assistant Curate, St Mary Magdalen’s Church, writing on behalf of Churches Together in Reading
