03/29/2026

I love seeing people packed in the church. Which mass do you think is the most "popular"(most people coming)? I remember four masses: Christmas of course, Ash Wednesday, Palm Sunday, and Easter.

Do you know why? I think it’s because people like the free: Free ashes, Free palms, Free Savior, and Free salvation.

We got free ashes as we began this Lenten journey, and you get free palms today. And above all, through this holy week, we are experiencing “free salvation.”

Once we seek his mercy, he is ready. It reminds us of what God already said through the prophet Isaiah: “All you who are thirsty, come to the water. You who have no money, come, buy grain and eat; Come, buy grain without money, wine and milk without cost!” (Isa 55:1).

Today’s passion narrative portrays how Jesus pays for our sins, so that we taste God’s salvation for free.

Especially, we remember the story of the repentant thief on the cross, which is in Luke’s version. It speaks volumes to our Lenten journey. I believe your Lenten journey went well and successfully. But some might have been frustrated, experiencing the weakness and fragility of humans. Then would you say your Lenten journey was screwed up?

Remember, Even at the last moment, Jesus still gives another chance to the repentant. Your journey to the Kingdom is not completed by your merits but by Jesus’s.

In addition to your effort, the last piece is on Jesus’ hand. So, once you rely on God’s mercy, your spiritual journey never fails. He dies as a ransom for us. He paid for us.

And we are listening to the salvific drama culminating in Jesus’ suffering, death, and resurrection throughout this Holy Week’s liturgies.

So, I cordially encourage you to attend the liturgies of the Holy Triduum this year.

Holy Thursday, the Mass of the Lord’s supper;

Good Friday liturgies; the stations of Cross and the liturgy of the Lord’s passion,

and Easter Vigil and Sunday.

By participating in the liturgies of the Holy Triduum, deepen your relationship with Jesus.