My God, my God, why have you abandoned me? — Psalm 22:2

Mass readings: Mark 11:1-10 or John 12:12-16 / Isaiah 50:4-7 / Philippians 2:6-11 / Mark 14:1—15:47 or 15:1-39 

The True Superstar 

I’m a sports nut. I watch football, basketball, and baseball. When I was growing up, my heroes were Ernie Banks, the slugging shortstop for the Chicago Cubs; and Walter Payton, the nimble running back for the Chicago Bears. I believed in my heart they were not only great athletes but great people. They were indeed gentlemen but I was blinded by their feats on the playing field. 

I’m no different from anyone else: we glorify movie stars, writers, and anyone with exceptional ability. We look up to them as role models, despite their all too human weaknesses. In today’s Gospel, Jesus triumphantly enters Jerusalem. His miracles impressed people but He was much more than a wonderworker, of course. He is our true role model. The way, the truth and the life.

Prayer: Lord, let me praise and worship You and put aside false idols.