This reading comes just after Jesus enters Jerusalem on the foal of a donkey, accompanied by voices raised in praise and adoration. Not only are Jews who see him as the long-awaited Messiah drawn to what he represents, so, too, are Greeks and other Gentiles. Jesus’ ministry and teaching is all about change – a change in the way people think about how the world should work and a change in the way people think about God. But change is never easy and Jesus is all-too-aware of that as he begins to prepare for his suffering and death. He knows that new life means the death of something else.
In the same way that a kernel of grain must be separated from its source of energy, dried out, and planted before it can burst forth and bear fruit, so must any thoughts, behaviors, and attitudes we wish to change. Think about any changes you might like to see in your life or in the life of your community. What would have to die before that change could happen? What losses would you grieve? Who would suffer negative effects of this change? How willing would you be to let go of the status quo if it meant new life? What gifts might blossom and bear fruit from this change?
Offer a prayer of thanksgiving for the promise of resurrection that follows any sort of loss, for the teaching of Jesus, and for the strength to face change with courage and hope.