The Silence That Speaks

04-13-2025Weekly ReflectionFr. Augustine Acheme, VC

Palm Sunday begins with cries of “Hosanna!” and ends in silence. It begins with palm branches waving for a king and concludes with a stone-sealed tomb. In the space between is the most profound story ever told: a story not just of suffering, but of love, surrender, and divine purpose.

One striking feature of the Passion narrative in Luke’s Gospel is the quiet strength of Jesus. He speaks, but not much. He accepts betrayal, denial, ridicule, and torture- yet He does not retaliate. When He does speak, it is with authority and compassion: “Father, forgive them,” “Today you will be with me in Paradise,” “Into your hands I commend my spirit.” These are not the words of a victim, but of a Savior.

Jesus’ silence speaks volumes. In a world where power is loud and violence often shouts, Jesus shows that true power lies in self-giving love. St. Paul captures this in the second reading: “He emp ed himself… becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross” (Phil 2:7-8).

The Passion invites us to contemplate our own response to suffering and injustice. When wronged, do we lash out or remain silent like Christ? When we carry our crosses- those daily burdens and hidden pains- do we carry them with bitterness or with grace?

St. Teresa of Calcutta once said, “Pain and suffering have come into your life, but remember: pain, sorrow, and suffering are but the kiss of Jesus- a sign that you have come so close to Him that He can kiss you.” This week invites us to walk closely with Jesus, not just to observe His suffering but to unite ours with His.

Even Peter’s denial is not the end of his story. A er his failure, he weeps bitterly, and later becomes a rock upon which the Church is built. This Holy Week reminds us that failure is not final in the eyes of God. There is mercy for those who return with humble hearts.

As we journey toward the cross and the silence of Holy Saturday, let us carry with us the echoes of Jesus’ quiet strength. Let us not be afraid to be still, to suffer with love, to forgive without explanation, and to trust that in dying to ourselves, we rise with Him.