Greetings on this the Chrism Mass (early on Tuesday)
Readings: Isaiah 61:1-3a, 6a, 8b-9; Psalm 89:21-22, 25 and 27; Revelation 1:5-8; Luke 4:16-21
Summary
Today is Holy Tuesday. Because Thursday is a rich theological day in the Church (Mass of the Lord’s Supper) and the Chrism Mass (of the same day), the Chrism Mass is often moved to earlier in the week – Today. At this Mass, the Bishop consecrates the Sacred Chrism and blesses the Oils of the Sick and Catechumens. These three oils of the Church are used throughout the year when ministering to others the spiritual gifts the Church has to offer in the name of Jesus Christ.
Two major purposes of the Chrism Mass (in addition to receiving the Lord in Holy Eucharist):
- Renewal of the Priestly Vows.
- The Sacred Chrism and blessing of the Oils of the Sick and Catechumens.
The sacred readings today fit this Mass perfectly.
From the Prophet Isaiah, The Anointed Bearer of Glad Tidings.
From our Gospel of Luke, the portion today, The Rejection at Nazareth – but today we focus on the first half – the Sent and Fulfillment.
In this Gospel we see three movements: being sent, being rejected (just beyond today’s passage), and being fulfilled.
Reflection
But our conclusion today, is the most important for today and maybe every day.
He said to them, “Today this scripture passage is fulfilled in your hearing.” (Lk 4:21)
First, fulfilled in Jesus. Then continued through his priests. Then extended to all of us.
Fulfillment of the divine promise so written in Isaiah, and made manifest in Jesus, continues in our Priests.
Carried from the bishop to the parish, these oils become quiet witnesses that the mission of Christ continues among us.
Personal Reflection
Every use of these sacred and blessed oils: Today this scripture passage is fulfilled in your hearing.
Every priestly ordination: Today this scripture passage is fulfilled in your hearing.
Each good thing you do in the name of Jesus: Today this scripture passage is fulfilled in your hearing.
Help Jesus, in your own way, fulfill the promise of Glad Tidings.
Sacred Readings full text: https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/040226-chrism.cfm
Peace be with you,
Deacon Gerry