In today’s Gospel, Matthew emphasizes the psychological pain which can come when all of your friends turn from you.  One of Jesus’ closest friends betrayed him to his enemies.  Another denied that he even knew him.  All of his companions fell asleep when he really needed their support.  And finally after swearing that they would never disown him, all except a few women, fled from the scene.   As you receive and take home your palm branches, place them where they will be visible to you each day as reminders that you will not betray, deny or disown Jesus through both good and bad times!