Date Posted: 2025-04-17 01:37:19 | Video Duration: 00:25:39
At Preston Hollow Presbyterian Church, the message of Palm Sunday resonated deeply with the congregation, as it explored the dual nature of humanity and the spiritual paths we choose to walk. As the pastor shared anecdotes and scripture, the congregation was invited to reflect on their own journey through Holy Week, embracing both vulnerability and strength.
The Paradox of Human Nature
The sermon began with a lighthearted recounting of a children’s sermon, where imaginative answers like “riding a dragon” in a parade were shared. This set the stage for a deeper exploration of Palm Sunday as a reflection of our human duality. The pastor recounted a conversation with a mentor, David Bartlett, who eloquently responded to a question about good and bad people with guns by saying, “There’s no such thing as good people with guns and bad people with guns.” He emphasized that Christians understand everyone possesses the capacity for both good and bad actions.
Drawing from the events of Holy Week, the pastor highlighted how the same crowd that shouted “Hosanna” could also cry “Crucify him.” This duality is a reminder of our shared need for God’s grace and mercy, as we navigate the complexities of life.
The Two Paths of Holy Week
In a vivid illustration, the pastor described two parades entering Jerusalem during Passover: one led by Roman soldiers showcasing power and the other led by Jesus, embodying humility by riding a donkey. These two paths symbolize the choices we face during Holy Week. The pastor challenged the congregation to consider which path they would take: the path of vulnerability or the path of defensiveness.
The message was clear: while it may be easier to hide behind defenses, true transformation and the grace we seek are found in embracing vulnerability. The pastor reminded everyone that Holy Week is a journey that invites us to confront our fears and trust in God’s unwavering love.
Worthy of God’s Love
The pastor shared a powerful story of the Dallas Street Choir’s performance at Carnegie Hall. When asked if the choir was “Carnegie Hall good,” the choir director responded, “I don’t know if they’re Carnegie Hall good, but I do know they are Carnegie Hall worthy.” This story served as a poignant metaphor for God’s acceptance of us, not based on our goodness or badness, but on our inherent worthiness of love and grace.
As Holy Week unfolds, the pastor invited the congregation to create a cross from palm fronds and carry it as a reminder of their journey. This simple act symbolizes the brokenness we all carry and the resurrection that awaits us when we embrace the path of vulnerability and faith.
Ultimately, the sermon invited listeners to reflect on their own lives and recognize that, in God’s eyes, they are “Carnegie Hall worthy.” As the congregation prepared for the week ahead, they were encouraged to embrace the paradox of their nature and find solace in the knowledge that they are deeply loved and valued by God.
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