Greetings on this the Wednesday of Holy Week
Readings: Isaiah 50:4-9a; Psalm 69:8-10, 21-22, 31 and 33-34; Matthew 26:14-25
Summary
Two Sets of Two
What are you willing to give me if I hand him over to you? Surely it is not I, Rabbi? (Mt 26:15, 25)?
Where do you want us to prepare for you to eat the Passover? Surely it is not I, Lord? (Mt 26:17, 22)?
Jesus descends to his agony – R. Lord, in your great love, answer me (PS 69:14c)
For your sake I bear insult,
and shame covers my face.
I have become an outcast to my brothers,
a stranger to my mother’s sons,
because zeal for your house consumes me,
and the insults of those who blaspheme you fall upon me.
Insult has broken my heart, and I am weak,
I looked for sympathy, but there was none;
for consolers, not one could I find.
Rather they put gall in my food,
and in my thirst they gave me vinegar to drink.
I will praise the name of God in song,
and I will glorify him with thanksgiving:
“See, you lowly ones, and be glad;
you who seek God, may your hearts revive!
For the LORD hears the poor,
and his own who are in bonds he spurns not.”
Reflection
The two sets of two questions bring into focus the differences between loving and using.
- Jesus is either Lord or merely a Teacher.
- Jesus is either to be helped or sold out.
Jesus must bear all of it. The betrayals and the disbelief.
Deeply he suffered. Deeply he loves.
Personal Reflection
Hail to you, our King, obedient to the Father; you were led to your crucifixion like a gentle lamb to the slaughter.
If I have any questions for the Lord, may it be like those of the Apostles.
- How can I be of help, Lord?
- Lord, help me be faithful to you.
Sacred Readings full text: https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/040126.cfm
Peace be with you,
Deacon Gerry