Once again we hear the powerful Passion story this year in Mark’s stark language. A few phrases could summarize the whole narrative:
“She has done what she could”(14:8);
“One of you will betray me” (14:18);
“Take, this is my body” (14:22);
“You will deny me” (14:30);
“(Judas) said, ‘Rabbi!’ and kissed him (14:45)
“Some began to spit on Him” (14:65);
“They shouted all the more ‘Crucify Him’” (15:14);
“Then Jesus gave a loud cry and breathed his last” (15:37); and
“Truly this man was God’s son” (15:39).
What is different about hearing the Passion this year? Perhaps the way we relate to our own lives. When we are wounded or broken-hearted, it is consoling to follow a Lord who wept, who agonized, and who knew human loss and vulnerability first hand. Jesus was and is the Great Lord, yet he could be nailed to a cross and buried like countless others.
During this Holy Week we might take some time to reflect on the high cost of our redemption. We don’t need to go through all sorts of contortions to earn anything. Jesus has won salvation for us. We might think about the greatest act of selfless love anyone has ever done for us, then see how Jesus surpasses it. Finally we might take some time and simply rest in quiet gratitude.
Why not come and join us as we celebrate the most sacred time of the year on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday evenings. Come and let the Lord touch each of us and offer his healing love as He alone knows what we truly need.