Your Neighbourhood Place of Hope

From the Pastor’s Desk

This Sunday is Palm Sunday—the day we remember Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem, celebrated as a triumph. But I’ve been wondering: what made it triumphant?

I have two brothers, and like most siblings, we grew up fighting—wrestling and shouting as kids, then trading barbed words and quiet tension as we got older. It’s a pattern most families know well.

Interestingly, the Bible reflects this too. In Genesis and throughout the Old Testament, we see that many national conflicts have their roots in family disputes. Israel’s enemies often shared bloodlines with them. In a way, war between nations can look a lot like sibling rivalry on a global scale.

So what if Jesus’ triumphal entry wasn’t about military power or political domination—but about showing us a new way to approach conflict altogether?

Click here to read Genesis 33, a story of reconciliation between brothers. Then come join us—either in person or online—as we explore this together. If you want to catch up on any of our past talks, you can check out our videos at YouTube.com/@standrewsnanaimo."

With you for Christ,

Pastor Jeremy

Questions to Go Deeper

1. What did you think about Pastor Jeremy’s sermon? Was there anything in it that made you think or something you really liked? Was there anything that confused you or that you’d like to know more about?

2. What do conflicts with your family look like? How are they similar to conflicts between nations? How are they different?

3. Jesus’ entrance into Jerusalem is often called His "triumphal entry." What made it triumphant?

4. Reflect on the events of Holy Week: the Last Supper, the Garden of Gethsemane, the trial, the crucifixion, the burial, and the resurrection. How did Jesus serve His disciples? Can you think of examples where He showed humility, generosity, and treated others as valuable?

5. Think about a time in your life when you experienced conflict. How might Jesus' example influence how you respond?