Theme: Serving for God, Not for Show
Leo was well known in his parish and community for his charity work. He sponsored outreach programs,
donated to orphanages, and regularly posted about his acts of kindness on social media. Smiling in photos with the needy, he often received praise like, “You’re such an inspiration!” and “God must be so proud of you!” But deep inside, Leo began to notice something troubling – he only felt motivated to give when there was an audience. When no one was watching, the passion faded. He skipped visits if there were no cameras, and he grew impatient with those who couldn’t offer him a “thank you.”
On Palm Sunday, during the reading of the Gospel, Leo heard how Jesus entered Jerusalem on a colt, not a grand horse. The people shouted “Hosanna!” and laid down cloaks, welcoming Him as King. But the priest’s homily struck a nerve. “Jesus didn’t come for applause,” the priest said. “He came to serve, to save, and to sacrifice – even when it meant rejection. The same crowd that cheered Him would soon abandon Him. Palm Sunday challenges us: Are we following Jesus for praise, or are we truly living for Him?”
Leo sat in silence, convicted. He saw himself in the crowd – loud in celebration, but hesitant when there was no glory. He whispered a quiet prayer: “Lord, teach me to love in secret, to give without needing to be seen.”
That week, Leo visited a widow in his parish – no selfies, no videos. Just listening, praying, and being present. For the first time in a long while, his heart felt full. It wasn’t about being noticed. It was about being faithful.
Reflection: A King on a Donkey
In Luke 19:28–40, Jesus enters Jerusalem humbly, knowing that the same crowd praising Him would soon turn away. He doesn’t seek applause – He seeks hearts.
Palm Sunday reminds us that it’s easy to serve when people are watching, to give when there’s praise. But the true follower continues even when the crowd disappears. The devil tempts us with performance-based holiness: doing good only to be admired, praised, or affirmed.
But Jesus teaches us to serve with humility—to give in secret, to love without expecting anything in return. That’s the mark of true discipleship.
Call to Action
As Holy Week begins, ask yourself:
- Do I serve for love of God or for approval from others?
- Am I willing to follow Christ even when no one else is looking?
- How can I love more authentically this week?
Let us follow the King who chose humility, not fame.
Let Us Pray:
Lord Jesus,
You came not to be served, but to serve.
Strip away my pride and teach me to love without conditions. Help me give without needing recognition,
and follow You with a heart rooted in truth.
In this Holy Week, may I lay down my ego,
and welcome You not just with my words, but with my life. Amen