Here, you will find a collection of reflections, guide questions, images and slide backgrounds — all crafted to enhance and elevate your celebration of Palm Sunday of the Lord’s Passion.
The Gist of Mark 14:1-15:47
The reading narrates the events leading to Jesus’ betrayal, arrest, trial, crucifixion, and burial. Jesus shares the Last Supper with his disciples, predicting his betrayal by Judas. He is subsequently arrested, faces a trial, endures crucifixion, and is laid to rest in a tomb, fulfilling the prophecies of his death and establishing the foundation of Christian belief in his sacrificial atonement for humanity’s sins.
Truly this man was the Son of God!
Mark 15:39
Passion and Death
Today we celebrate Palm Sunday, the day when Jesus entered Jerusalem as a king, but also as a lamb ready to be sacrificed for our sins. We have just heard the long and dramatic account of his passion and death, from the Gospel of Mark. In this story, we see how Jesus faced betrayal, denial, mockery, torture, and crucifixion, with courage, love, and obedience to the Father’s will.
As we reflect on this story, we may wonder: How can we relate to Jesus in his suffering? How can we follow his example of faithfulness and self-giving? How can we share in his victory over sin and death? One way to answer these questions is to examine our own lives and see what prevents us from being close to Jesus and living according to his teachings. For some of us, especially the young ones among us, one of the obstacles may be video game addiction.
Video Game Addiction
Video game addiction is a condition characterized by excessive and compulsive playing of video games, to the point that it interferes with other aspects of our lives, such as school, work, family, friends, and health. Video game addiction can cause many negative effects, such as poor mental health, aggression, isolation, and physical problems.
Video game addiction can also affect our spiritual life, by making us forget about God and his love for us, by making us neglect our prayer and worship, by making us indifferent to the needs of others, and by making us waste the precious time and talents that God has given us.
I am not saying that video games are bad or evil. They can be a source of fun, entertainment, and learning, if used in moderation and with discernment. But if they become an addiction, they can harm us and separate us from God and his plan for us.
New Life with Christ
That is why, as we enter into Holy Week, I invite you to take some time to examine your gaming habits and to ask yourselves: How much time do I spend playing video games? How does it affect my mood, my relationships, my responsibilities, and my health? How does it affect my relationship with God and my participation in the Church? Do I feel guilty, anxious, or depressed when I play or when I stop playing? Do I have other interests or hobbies that I enjoy? Do I have friends or family who support me and help me balance my gaming and my life?
If you find that you have a problem with video game addiction, do not despair or be ashamed. Remember that Jesus loves you and wants to help you. He knows your struggles and your weaknesses. He died for you and rose again to give you new life. He is always ready to forgive you and to heal you, if you turn to him with trust and repentance.
Few souls understand what God would accomplish in them if they were to abandon themselves unreservedly to Him and if they were to allow His grace to mold them accordingly.
St. Ignatius of Loyola
Reflective Questions for Spiritual Growth
- How does the journey of Jesus towards the cross in Mark 14:1-15:47 inspire you to reflect on the choices you make in your own life, especially in the context of online gaming? Consider the sacrifices made and the purpose behind those decisions.
- Consider the time and energy you invest in gaming. Are you finding a balance that allows you to fully engage in both the virtual and real worlds? What adjustments can you make to ensure a healthier equilibrium?
- In the spirit of intentional choices, consider setting specific time limits for your gaming sessions and create a schedule that allocates dedicated time for other aspects of your life. Take practical steps to implement these changes and observe the impact on your daily life.
Free Social Images & Slides to Share
Feel free to download and share the following images on your social media platforms. Additionally, a presentation background is available for use in various presentation tools such as PowerPoint, Google Slides, Canva, and others:
