Passion (Lent A6)

This week we have a choice between the liturgy of the palms and the liturgy of the passion. Our church doesn't have a tradition of Holy Week services, so I am delving into the passion this week.

Then I am struck in the face by the gospel imagery. It is like Matthew goes into slow motion to describe this climax. I am tempted to soften it by preaching emulation from Paul. Or Jesus facing his accusers from the OT readings. They may well serve as canticles playing out the music in Jesus' mind, but that music is silent! He faces his accusers with silence and we are left with only stark self-allowed sacrifice in the face of mockery and pain. For you. For me.