Reverend Larry Silva, Bishop | Diocese of Honolulu

Amidst reflections on human behavior and the significance of Palm Sunday, a recent homily delivered by a Bishop has sparked contemplation on faith and self-preservation.

The homily highlighted the contrast of the people of Jerusalem welcoming Jesus with shouts of “Hosanna!” only to later demand his crucifixion. It also drew attention to Peter's swift shift from loyalty to denial during Jesus' trial.

The Bishop emphasized the prevalence of 'bandwagon jumping' in society, where individuals profess faith but engage in behaviors contradictory to their beliefs. The message cautioned against blindly following popular trends and urged for steadfastness in one's convictions.

Drawing parallels to Jesus' unwavering commitment to his divine purpose, the homily praised his refusal to conform to societal pressures and prioritization of obedience to God over personal success. The Bishop underscored the transformative power of embracing failure in the face of worldly expectations.

While acknowledging Jesus' apparent defeat through crucifixion, the homily conveyed hope in his resurrection and enduring presence among believers. It concluded with a call to emulate Jesus' sacrifice and find redemption in embracing the cross, symbolizing a path to eternal life and joy.