Inspiration for the week: Palm Sunday

This month in North Carolina has been frustrating.

After warm temperatures and beautiful, sunny skies in February that led to early blooms on the trees, March has been full of cold and snow and wind and rain. Folks from the North probably laugh at us, but here in the South we're not equipped for snow in the springtime.

Still, regardless of the weather, Holy Week has come. Today is Palm Sunday, and though I had to wear a coat to church this morning, I want my heart to be ready to welcome Jesus this week.

Perhaps, like me, you could use a little extra preparation for Holy Week. If so, you might enjoy reading this poem from G.K. Chesterton.

"The Donkey"

When fishes flew and forests walked

And figs grew upon thorn,

Some moment when the moon was blood

Then surely I was born;

With monstrous head and sickening cry

And ears like errant wings,

The devil's walking parody

On all four-footed things.

The tattered outlaw of the earth,

Of ancient crooked will;

Starve, scourge, deride me; I am dumb.

I keep my secret still.

Fools! For I also had my hour;

One far fierce hour and sweet:

There was a shout about my ears,

And palms before my feet.

And perhaps you will join me in this prayer: 

Dear Lord, warm our hearts to welcome you. Lord, give us eyes to see, ears to hear, and hearts to recognize Jesus as King of Kings.

A blessed Palm Sunday to you!