Glory be to Jesus Christ!
Have you ever seen the cross on the back of a donkey? The Nubian burro is the species that carried our Lord into Jerusalem, and also most likely carried Him in the womb of His mother on their trip to Bethlehem. These donkeys each have a unique darker “shadow of the cross” on their backs whose size and shape are unique to each animal. In some cases they are even used as a form of identification in their registration papers!
The donkey is a humble animal. Our Lord did not ride into Jerusalem on a war horse, but on a meek and humble donkey. Here lies an incredible lesson for us today brothers and sisters. How can we better imitate the humility of this beast of burden and so bring the Lord, not our own ideas or projects or initiatives, but the Lord Himself to others?
As we prepare for the Great and Holy Fast, let us continue to grow in the humility of the Publican, and take the quiet strength of the donkey as a good reminder of keeping the focus off of ourselves and completely on the Lord!
Glory be to Jesus Christ!
PS- I will be on pilgrimage in the Holy Land for a little while. Please pray for me and for our fellow pilgrims! Weekday reflections to continue upon my return!
