1ST READING. IS 52: 13-53:12. PSALM 31. 2ND READING. HEB 4:14-16; 5:7-9. GOSPEL. JN 18:1-19;42.
THEME: THE PASSION & DEATH OF JESUS
INTRODUCTION
Today’s celebration is divided into three parts, namely, the liturgy of the Word, The Veneration of the Cross and Holy Communion. It is only this day that the Church doesn’t celebrate Mass. On this day the Church commemorates the Passion and death of her Saviour. Today, the Church celebrates her Passover, her redemption. Today, the Church recalls the sufferings, agony, pains, rejection, denial and crucifixion of her Lord. It is a solemn day. We are to remember and celebrate this day with every sense of reverence and Adoration.
In the first reading, the Prophet Isaiah envisions Jesus as the Man of Sorrow. He was pierced through for our faults, crushed for our sin. By his suffering, we are justified. By his suffering and death, we gained freedom and redemption. The letter to the Hebrews tells us that we have a high priest who is able to sympathize with us because he was tempted but without sinning. We should draw near with confidence to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in time of need.
The Evangelist John gave us a graphic narrative of the whole episode of the Passion and Death of Christ. In this narrative, we see many characters like Judas, Peter, the other disciples, the soldiers, the Women of Jerusalem, Malchus, Annas, Caiaphas the high priest, Pilate among others. Jesus, suffering betrayal and denial in the hands of Judas and Peter respectively. Today, Jesus is still being crucified by many. Some are betraying him while others are denying him. Where do you stand? The high priest, Caiaphas was the Chief persecutor of Jesus with other priests, scribes and Pharisees. Today, many are still playing the role of Caiaphas and Annas. Which role are you playing? There are women of Jerusalem, including Mary the Mother of Jesus. These women were consoling Jesus in his moment of trials. Mary, the wife of Cleopas, Mary Magdalene, the Mother of Jesus and John the Beloved were there as his pillar of support. We need to imitate the example of these women and John the beloved. They stood with Jesus throughout his trials, suffering and death.
Jesus died for us, let us die to every vice in us. He died for us that we might live for him. The scripture tells us that he died for all, so that those who live might no longer live for themselves but for him who for their sake died and was raised. (2 Cor 5:15). Jesus death on the Cross is enough lessons for all who wants to serve him. By his death, he taught a lesson in obedience, a lesson in Submissiveness to the will of God. By his death, he showed us the path of sacrifice, the way of true love, the way of faith and hope. By his death, the summary of the Gospel is presented to us. What are we to do for all that Jesus has done for us?
The apostle Paul tells us if we have died with him we shall also live with him. If we persevere, we shall also reign with him. But if we deny him, he will deny us.(2 Tim 2:11-12).
Let us today resolve never to betray Jesus again. Let us resolve today, never to deny Jesus in our daily living. Let us resolve today, to renew our Baptismal commitment. Let us resolve today, to follow Jesus faithfully no matter what it may cost us.
Lord, Please, help us to overcome inordinate self love. Give us the grace we need to love above all things. Fill us with your love. Lord, Please give us your heart that we may be like you. Amen. Wishing you all a peaceful day.
With lots of prayers and love.
