Palm Sunday comes this weekend, marking the beginning of Holy Week and recalling the day we traditionally remember Jesus' entry into Jerusalem. According to the story, throngs of people crowded the streets—waving palms at Jesus, honoring him, and proclaiming him the long-awaited Messiah as he strode into Jerusalem on the back of a donkey. Like many scriptural narratives, the tale is most likely apocryphal—meant to convey an idea rather than serve as a strictly factual account of an event. Liturgically, the story prompts us to reflect on themes of hope, the triumph of love, and what it means to follow Jesus' humble example.

This Sunday, let's consider where we find ourselves in the crowd. Perhaps you are right up front, looking for a hero; or maybe you stand on the opposite side of the street, complaining that this figure may upset the status quo. Perhaps you're watching him pass, wondering what your role might be. Are you there searching for someone to save you, or does your presence inspire you to consider how, as a follower, you can use your gifts to serve others? Or maybe you're not even there.

Palm Sunday reminds us that everyone—from the humblest to the most influential, elevated, and privileged among us—has an important role in history. Faith calls us to decide where we will stand. Join us on Sunday for "Crowd Control."