Words of Light and Hope from Tony Hawes

As Jesus rode along, people kept spreading their cloaks on the road. As he was now approaching the path down from the Mount of Olives, the whole multitude of the disciples began to praise God joyfully with a loud voice for all the deeds of power they had seen.  Luke 19.36-37.

It is ourselves that we must spread under Christ’s feet, not coats or lifeless branches or shoots of trees, matter which wastes away and delights the eye only for a few brief hours. But we have clothed ourselves with Christ’s grace, with the whole Christ – “for as many of you as were baptised into Christ have put on Christ.” – so let us spread ourselves like coats under his feet.   Andrew of Crete.

Prayer
Jesus – riding into Jerusalem on a donkey.

Loving God, we pray for the leaders of the nations, and their peoples, at this difficult time. For……

Your kingdom come, your will be done.

Jesus – washing feet and sharing a meal with friends.

Loving God, we pray that we may be faithful and loving to our friends and our neighbours. For……

Your kingdom come, your will be done.

Jesus – praying on the Mount of Olives.

Loving God, we pray for those seeking your strength and guidance in these times of anxiety and fear. For……

Your kingdom come, your will be done.

 Jesus – enduring the agony of the Cross.

Praise to you, Lord Jesus Christ, for all the benefits you have won for me, for all the pains and insults you have borne, for me. Most merciful redeemer, friend and brother, may I know you more clearly, love you more dearly, and follow you more nearly, day by day.  Amen.