Palm Sunday and the Donkey

Holy Week :  Palm Sunday

*Gospel :  Mt 26: 14-27:66*

*First Reading : Is 50: 4-7*

*Responsorial Psalm : 22:8-24*

*Second Reading : Phil 2:6-11*

*Palm Sunday and the Donkey*

*1) Why did Jesus choose a donkey?*

In ancient times, kings rode horses when going to war, but rode donkeys when they came in peace. By choosing a donkey, Jesus was making a powerful statement:

He is a King of peace, not violence. His kingdom is spiritual, not political domination

He fulfills prophecy, especially Book of Zechariah 9:9: “See, your king comes to you… humble and riding on a donkey.”

So, the donkey represents humility, peace, and divine purpose.

*2) What is the importance of the donkey in this journey?*

The donkey plays a quiet but crucial role:

It carries Jesus, but does not draw attention to itself

It participates in a sacred mission without pride

It becomes an instrument of God’s plan

Without the donkey, the symbolic fulfillment and visual message of Palm Sunday would be incomplete. The donkey shows that even the ordinary and overlooked can carry the extraordinary.

*3) How can one “become a donkey” in daily life?*

This is a beautiful spiritual metaphor. To “become the donkey” means:

*Be available* – ready to serve when called

*Be humble* – not seeking recognition or praise

*Carry goodness* – bring love, peace, and truth into situations

*Trust the rider* – let God guide your direction

In daily life, this could look like:

Helping others quietly without expecting thanks

Doing small acts of kindness consistently

Letting your actions reflect faith rather than ego

*4) The Powerful message from the Donkey*

The donkey teaches us: Greatness lies in humility. You don’t need status to serve a divine purpose. God works through the simple and willing

While the crowd in Jerusalem shouted praises, the donkey remained steady and silent. It reminds us that being faithful is more important than being famous.

*5) The need of “becoming the donkey” today*

Today’s world is marked by:

Constant self-promotion (social media, status)

Desire for visibility and validation

Competition for power and recognition

In this context, the donkey becomes more relevant than ever.

Why we need this today: To counter ego with humility. To replace noise with quiet faithfulness. To shift from “Look at me” to “Let goodness pass through me”

The world doesn’t just need more leaders—it needs more servants.

*6) Point to Ponder*

The donkey did not preach, perform, or shine. Yet, it carried the One who changes the world.

Maybe the invitation of Palm Sunday is this: Don’t try to be the center—be the carrier.

*Think about it*

*God bless you and your family. Praying for you and your dear ones*

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*