Lenten Joy?

Palm Sunday? Already?

Palm Sunday is this Sunday. It sure seems like Lent went by very quickly this year. At the beginning of Lent, we received the gift of ashes on our foreheads as a reminder to repent and believe in the Gospel. I wonder how many who received the ashes were able to live this out during Lent? What Gospel message did you receive during Lent and share with the community, church, and cosmos? Now at the end of Lent, we receive another gift: palm branches. Why palms? In ancient times, palm branches symbolized goodness and victory. Often you would find palm branches on coins and important buildings. Solomon even had them carved into the walls and doors of the temple. As you know, Palm Sunday commemorates Jesus entering Jerusalem during which people threw palm branches in his path. Nowadays it would be a red carpet and, instead of a donkey, a limo or popemobile. After the palm branches are blessed, a procession (a parade) follows. Thus, begins Holy Week during which we recall Jesus’ death and resurrection. Don’t you wonder how the people who honored him felt after Good Friday? This week is one of ups and downs. We celebrate, we fear, we grieve, we hope, and by Easter we truly celebrate Jesus’ Resurrection.

Have a Pretzel?

Ever feel all twisted or tied up in knots over events in your life and our world? When everything is overwhelming, and you do not know what to do, it reminds me of pretzels, and it is time to pray. Pretzels are twisted, baked dough treats with a history rooted in Christian symbolism and used as treats or gifts, with some believing their origin as a "little reward" given to children learning prayers. But did you know that pretzels are a symbol for Lent? Okay, do you know why? I did some research.                                                                                                                                                                                                                       

Pretzels are a symbolic food, with their twisted shape often seen as representing arms crossed in prayer, and the simplicity of their ingredients (flour, salt, water) symbolizing commitment and attention to prayer. 

Symbol of Prayer: a season of reflection and spiritual preparation for Easter.

Simplicity of Ingredients: focus on simplicity and self-discipline.

Lenten Tradition: to abstain from certain foods, and pretzels, became a suitable and symbolic food to eat during this time.

"Bracellae”: Latin for "little arms" is "bracellae", which is the origin of the word "pretzel", further solidifying the connection between pretzels and prayer.

Others think that the pretzel shape represents the Holy Trinity, with the three holes (and only three ingredients). Next time you are hungry and grab a pretzel for a snack, take a moment to reflect on its significance.

Getting in (Spiritual) Shape

Lent is a way for us to put ourselves in shape for life. Prayer, fasting and almsgiving are the three recommended practices for Lent. Adding a few minutes of prayer for the person who irritates us will lift a burden that might be weighing down our hearts. Fasting from critical remarks or from sending a “zinger” someone’s way may not decrease our girth but will increase our love. Giving a helping hand or words of encouragement to another are better than any amount of money or material gifts that could ever be offered.

The Lord has given us a wonderful opportunity this Lent. Can we accept the challenge? Can we accept the benefits? Can we be open to new life?