lenten reflections 2014
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....StStStSt John John John John’s Episcopal Cathedrals Episcopal Cathedrals Episcopal Cathedrals Episcopal Cathedral
LENTEN REFLECTIONS 2014
The Gospels
Knoxville, TN Diocese of East Tennessee
413 Cumberland Avenue Knoxville, TN 37902-2302 P.O. Box 153, 37901-0153 | (865) 525-7347
http://www.stjohnscathedral.org
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Introduction to Lenten Reflections
The Season of Lent is the 40-day period before Easter, beginning on Ash
Wednesday (March 5 this year). It has historically been a season of soul-searching,
repentance, and reflection. It originated in the very earliest days of the Church as a
preparatory time for Easter, when the faithful rededicated themselves and when
converts were instructed in the faith and prepared for baptism. By observing the
Lenten discipline, the individual Christian imitates Jesus’ withdrawal into the
wilderness for 40 days.
For close to a decade, contributors (parishioners and parish friends) to our Lenten
Reflections have focused on the daily readings. This year we focus on the Gospels,
revisiting Mark, the earliest of the three synoptic Gospels—almost certainly the
major source for both Matthew and Luke. Some pertain closely to the daily Gospel
reading; if so, the passage (or a portion of it) is quoted at the top of the page.
The pages for Sundays—our “little Easters”—list the readings for the day, but are
otherwise blank so that you may join us in this community activity by composing
your own Reflection based on one of the daily readings. Lenten Sundays are not
counted among the forty days, because each Sunday is a mini-Easter,
commemorating the Resurrection, Christ’s victory over sin and death.
You may join us in daily prayer, either in our Chapel (at 8 a.m. Tuesdays-Fridays
now, though watch for a time change) or by turning to the daily readings as listed
in the following pages or in the Book of Common Prayer pp. 951 953, 955, 957.
Contributors since 2004 include Jerry Askew, Margery Bensey, Michael Bensey, Sandie
Bishop, Charlotte Blair, Sharlyn Bolinger, Michelle Bolt, George Bond, Heather Booth, Chloe
Chitwood, Trey Conway, Elizabeth Corlew, John Coyle, Charles Craven, Delle Craven, Lindsay
Crawford, Justin Crisp, J. A. Frazer Crocker, Mary Kathryn Crone, Sister Michael Julian
Davidson, Jeanne Davis, John Davis, Debra L. Dalton, Melissa Sicard Dodson, Bethany K.
Dumas, Carolyn Ellis, Elizabeth Farr, John Michael Fox, Elsbeth Freeman, Mary Goodman, Kim
Gotschall, Sally Gouffon, Chris Hackett, Wanda Haralson, Peggy Harb, Thalia Hatmaker,
Barbara Hickey, Cornelia Hickman, Dana Hornby, Carney Ivy, Margaret Johns, Ginny Jones,
Kimberly Kertis, Kathy Lasater, Robert Leopold, Audrey Little-Crawford, Bo Lewis, Anne
Lovett, G. David Lovett, Beverley McGavin, Stephanie McIntosh, Sandy Maloy, Glo Marquis,
Kelly Marston, Cindy Matlock, Zulette Melnick, Joan Moneymaker, Marcia Moneymaker, Joel
Morris, Linda Morris, Janet Murray, Hugh G. Neil, Jr., Jim Orr, Charles Ovenshine, Jere Ownby,
Jamie Peabody, Ron Peabody, Joy Pinckney, Margaret Pinckney, Travis Porter, Thom Rasnick,
Eleanor Ripley, Buck Rogers, John Ross, Eileen Schilling, Sylvia Sergent, Melissa Sicard,
Jonathan Sowell, Anne Sprouse, Robert Sullivan, Nancy Tanner, Lloyd Terry, Pattie Thiele,
Juanita Vann, Michael van Vuuren, Charles Wareing, Catherine White, Donna White, Ben
Williams, Marcia Williams, Randall Willis, Zak Young—and some anonymous contributors.
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Ash Wednesday, March 5
Luke 18:9-14 The Parable of the Pharisee and the Tax Collector
He also told this parable to some who trusted in themselves that they were
righteous and regarded others with contempt: “Two men went up to the temple to
pray, one a Pharisee and the other a tax collector. The Pharisee, standing by
himself, was praying thus, ‘God, I thank you that I am not like other people:
thieves, rogues, adulterers, or even like this tax collector. I fast twice a week; I give
a tenth of all my income.’ But the tax collector, standing far off, would not even
look up to heaven, but was beating his breast and saying, ‘God, be merciful to me,
a sinner!’ I tell you, this man went down to his home justified rather than the other;
for all who exalt themselves will be humbled, but all who humble themselves will
be exalted.”
_________________________________
See that little phrase “standing by himself” in verse 11? Well, I have to say, it just
jumped off the page and into my life. You see, the Pharisee is not just trapped in a
destructive and self-reinforcing cycle of self-righteousness and contempt for
others; he has also removed himself and walked away from community. The tax
collector, for his part, is “standing far off” – but far off from whom, we must ask.
From the Pharisee. This man, engaged in pure repentance, is “standing far off”
because the Pharisee has walked away.
Repentance is done in community, something Episcopalians affirm each Sunday by
reciting the General Confession together and which, for that matter, the whole
Church affirms during the season of Lent. Today, each of us will walk up to the
altar rail as individuals, be told we are but dust and to dust we shall return, and go
back to our pews one community, the Body of Christ – a sacramental
transformation signified by the identical little crosses we will now wear on our
foreheads.
Those crosses remind us we do not live unto ourselves. We walk the pilgrim way
of Lent – and of life – together.
Psalms 32, 143—102,130; Amos 5:6-15; Hebrews 12:1-14, Luke 18:9-14
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Thursday after Ash Wednesday, March 6
John 17:1-8
John 17:3 and this is eternal life, that they know thee the only true God, and Jesus
Christ whom thou has sent.
In today’s Gospel reading, we are given a definition of eternal life. That definition
is that we have eternal life by knowing God and by knowing Jesus himself. But
what does “Knowing God” and “Knowing Jesus”, mean? Knowing is not just a
prolonged duration of life but it is also defined here as having a relationship with
the Father through His Son. Entering into this relationship, this “Knowing,” leads
to the fulfillment of God’s plan of not only eternal life for us, but also the abundant
life to which Jesus referred.
Entering into this relationship cannot be achieved by just knowing facts or ideas
about God and his Son, and believing that they are true. It also requires an
understanding of our sinful nature and how our sin separates us from God and
destroys our relationship with Him. This understanding leads to repentance,
forgiveness, and thus, a relationship with God.
Through our reflections and prayers during this season of penitence, may we come
to a deeper understanding of our sinful nature, our need for repentance and
forgiveness, which we must constantly seek, so that we can be in relationship with
Him— in a relationship that leads to abundant eternal life.
Psalms 37:1-18—37:19-42; Habakkuk 3:1-18; Philemon 3:12-21; John 17:1-8
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Friday after Ash Wednesday, March 7
John 17:9-19
In his longest prayer recorded in the Bible, Jesus prays for those whom God has
given him. He prays for those He is close to – those who have given over their
lives to serve Him, those who will go into the world to proclaim the good news.
We owe the same prayer for those whom we are close to in our communities.
Whether we are concerned about our families, our fellow workers, or our church
community, our ability to broaden our efforts and influence to these groups and
even beyond is dependent upon the people about us – the people we know.
Christ recognized the strength that ‘His community’ provided him, and he turned
to God and said “I pray for…those you have given me…glory has come to me
through them.”
Psalms 31—35; Ezekiel 18:1-4,25-32; Philemon 3:12-21; John 17:9-19
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Saturday after Ash Wednesday, March 8
John 17:20-26
John 17:20 “I do not pray for those only, but also for those who believe in me
through their word...”
Just before Jesus approaches his betrayal, he prays for not only for those to whom
he has given the Word, but also for the future generations who will receive the
Word from his disciples. This implies an awesome connection between Jesus, the
Christians of his time, and all of the generations of Christians who have followed.
To know that Christ included us in one of his final prayers as a man on earth is a
humbling thought. Even though there have been conflicts and theological
disagreements throughout history, and in our time we experience dissent among
denominations and even congregations, it is marvelous to know that , according to
Christ’s own words, we, along with all of the saints who lived before us, are all
members of the same “holy, catholic, apostolic” church.
Psalms 30,32—42,43; Ezek. 39:21-20; Philemon 4:10-20; John 17:20-26
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First Sunday in Lent, March 9
John 12:44-50
You are invited to participate in our reflection activity by reading the Gospel
passage—or another text—and writing your own reflection for this day.
My Reflection
Psalms 63,98—103; Dan. 9:3-10; Heb. 2:10-18; John 12:44-50
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Monday in Lent 1, March 10
Mark 1:1-13
Five Wishes
I wish
I had been John the Baptist’s contemporary,
And had followed this intriguing, religious man
To his wilderness home.
Would I have been appalled
By his mode of living or dress? No!
He wore a fantastic outfit,
Fashioned from the woven fabric of camel hair.
The costume hung off his shoulders,
And touched his sandaled feet.
A worn, leather belt snuggly tucked
The material in at the waist.
I wish
This incredible John
Had extended to me an invitation
To stay and dine with him.
We would have gorged ourselves on
Wriggly locusts
And wild, sweet honey.
I wish
I had lingered with John in the wilderness,
And watched the gathering people
Arriving from Jerusalem and all over Judea.
I would have listened to him sermonize
About sin, confession,
And forgiveness,
And baptism.
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I wish
I had remained with the uncommon man,
When the crowd departed.
And Jesus, from Nazareth in Galilee, appeared.
I would have witnessed
John’s baptism of our Savior.
And watched the heaven’s split open,
As the Holy Spirit descended,
Like a dove, on the Son of God.
I wish
At that moment,
God had chosen me to become a member
Of His wilderness angel corps
To fulfill a forty-day assignment,
Caring for His Son,
The Satan-tempted Jesus.
Psalms 41,52—44; Genesis 37:1-11; I Corinthians 1:1-19 Mark 1:1-13
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Tuesday in Lent 1, March 11
Mark 1:14-28
Mark 1:17 “Come follow me,” Jesus said, “and I will make you fishers of men.”
These verses graphically illustrate what the call to follow Jesus means. We will be
called to a life of humility and service to others—without concern for wealth,
power or acclaim. Furthermore, though we may well be attacked by those who are
destructive and self-serving, we will teach by example and bring new followers to
the good news of God.
Oh, God, grant us faith in You that is strong enough to follow whenever and
wherever you lead us!
Psalms 47, 48 Genesis 37:12-24 1 Cor. 1:20-31 Mark 1:14-28
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Wednesday in Lent 1, March 12
Mark 1:29-45
Mark 1:41 … moved with pity, Jesus stretched out his hand and touched him…
At the store entrance where I pick up my rolling grocery basket, there is a stand
with antiseptic wipes for customers to disinfect where hands touch the cart. On the
back of the church pew at a local church, there are small bottles of hand sanitizer to
use before or after shaking hands. People are concerned with spreading flu germs
at this time of the year. So it was in Jesus’ time. People were concerned with
touching a “leper.” Those affected were though to be unclean and contagious. But
when the “leper” came to Jesus begging to be made clean, Jesus overlooked the
disease that affected his body. Jesus touched him, and he was made well. Jesus
looked for what was inside the man.
Now this does not imply that we are not to be mindful of flu and other germs and
take precautions. It does imply that there is more to people than we can often see
on the outside. My grandmother had nothing wrong with the skin on her hands. But
she was old, wrinkled and had dark age spots. Arthritis had caused some fingers to
be bent inward. In winter, her hands were often rough and red from working
outside on the farm. But when she used her hands to wipe away my tears and
bandage my skinned knee, the touch was soft and warm. Her hands seemed straight
and beautiful as she held the Bible during evening prayers. I shall always
remember how she reached out and touched me as she closed her eyes in prayer.
It’s what inside a person that God loves. He often passes that love on to others by a
touch.
Dear God, help me to remember that regardless of how great or unknown, well or
sick, rich or poor, young or old, saint or sinner, no person is beyond the loving
touch of Jesus. Amen.
Psalms 119:49-72—49, [53]; Genesis 37:25—36;1 Corinthians 2:1-13; Mark 1:29-45
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Thursday in Lent 1, March 13
Mark 2:1-12
Mark 2:4 Since they could not get him to Jesus because of the crowd, they made an
opening in the roof...
We are all familiar with the story of Jesus healing the paralytic after his friends
lowered him through the roof. Jesus forgives his sins , heals him, and sends him on
his way. But how often do we think of the importance of the four friends? Suppose
they had not had time to take him to Jesus. Or suppose when there was a crowd at
the door, they had turned around and taken him home. Even before he was healed,
he seems to have been a very lucky man to have four such devoted friends. Are we
that kind of friend to others? Do we persevere to be sure our friends and family get
the help and encouragement they need? As we prepare for Easter, reflecting on
what really matters most to us is a way to prepare ourselves for the joyous
celebration of the resurrection.
Psalms 50—[59,60] or 19,46; Genesis 39:1-23; 1 Corinthians 2:14-3:15;Mark 2:1-12
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Friday in Lent 1, March 14
Mark 2:13-22
These passages explore some of the frictions between Jesus and the religious elite
of the day. He didn't fast; He hung out with tax collectors; and He ate on the
Sabbath. Basically, he didn't follow the “rules.” He led his friends to repent and
celebrate the joy of forgiveness. The wedding, the new wine, and the cloth are all
images of joy and strength from diving into the grace of God and celebrating in
His bountiful mercy.
Psalms 40,54—51; Genesis 40:1-23; 1 Corinthians 3:16-23; Mark 2:13-22
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Saturday in Lent 1, March 15
Mark 2:23—3:6
Mark 2:27 “The sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath.”
The Sabbath was made for man for his renewal. We need this offering of
His body and blood to sustain us for the week to come and to worship Him
and thank Him for all He does.
Psalms 55—138,139; Genesis 41:1-13;1 Corinthians 4:1-7; Mark 2:23—3:6
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Second Sunday in Lent, March 16
John 5:19-24
You are invited to participate in our reflection activity by reading the Gospel
passage—or another text—and writing your own reflection for this day.
My Reflection
Psalms 24,19—8.84; Genesis 41:14-45; Romans 6:3-14; John 5:19-24
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Monday in Lent 2, March 17
Mark 3:7-19a
Jesus had been preaching. Because of His reputation as a healer, those with
infirmities had sought him out. They were everywhere. The Pharisees waited to see
if he would continue Healing on Sunday.
Jesus went with those who were with him to the sea to rest. Afterwards, He went to
the Mountain, to pray all night. Then He chose twelve to be his followers. They
became his Apostles and he taught them to heal and carry on his Ministry, even
though one of them would betray him.
We all possess weakness and we are all strengthened by our belief in the Goodness
of Jesus, for he changes our hearts to prepare us for his Ministry.
Psalms 56,57,[58]—64,65; Genesis 41:46-57; 1 Corinthians 4:8-20; Mark 3:7-19a
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Tuesday in Lent 2, March 18
Mark 3:19b-35
Mark 3:35: “Whoever does the will of God is my brother and sister and mother.”
I have a friend who recently offered me a job. I’ve had friends whom I have
approached about jobs, but never have I been approached without having to ask.
My friend and I had not talked for a couple of years as we were just living our lives
and lost touch as sometimes people do. I have been in a significantly bad financial
position for what seems a long time. I have asked friends and acquaintances for
help with job leads. For the past two years things were about as bad as they could
get for me. I prayed, I searched, I prayed harder…nothing. Suddenly from nowhere
I was being offered a great position earning more money than I had been praying
for. My friend who knew that I was looking and was in a position to offer help did
so. Was my friend doing the will of God by offering the job to me? I have to
believe so. And I have to believe this friend is my sister for trying to do the will of
God. My new sister is a gift I thank God for every day. Amen.
Psalms 61,62—68; Genesis 42:1-17; 1 Corinthians 5:1-8; Mark 3:19b-35
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Wednesday in Lent 2, March 19
Mark 4:1-20
Mark 4:2-8 Jesus began to teach by the lake: "Listen! A farmer went out to sow his
seed. Some fell along the path, and the birds came and ate it up. Some fell on rocky
places where it sprang up quickly because the soil was shallow. But when the sun
came up, the plants were scorched, and they withered because they had no root.
Other seed fell among thorns, which grew up and choked the plants, so that they
did not bear grain. Still other seed fell on good soil. It came up, grew and
produced a crop, multiplying thirty, sixty, or even a hundred times." Then Jesus
said to his Disciples: "Don't you understand this parable? The farmer sows the
word. Some people are like seed along the path. As soon as they hear it, Satan
comes and takes away the word that was sown in them. Others, like seed sown in
rocky places, hear the word and at once receive it with joy. But since they have no
root, when trouble or persecution comes because of the word, they quickly fall
away. Still others, like seed sown among thorns, hear the word; but the worries of
this life, the deceitfulness of wealth, come in and choke the word, making it
unfruitful. Others, like seed sown on good soil, hear the word, accept it, and
produce a crop--thirty, sixty, or even a hundred times what was sown."
This is one of Jesus' most familiar parables, related to daily life of the farm
community with which his hearers were most familiar. It is an illustration of
how hearers react to God's word. Today we can ask ourselves: which of these
describes my reaction to Jesus' teaching? What do I do about it? Ignore it?
Take it with enthusiasm but soon forget about it? Or receive it and live by it?
It is up to each person to identify what elements in his/her life are like the rocks or
the poor soil which produce no green sprouts. Recognizing these, and praying that
the Holy Spirit will help us remove these obstacles to spiritual fulfillment, can
move us into the good soil.
Psalms 72 119:73-96; Genesis 42:18-28; 1 Corinthians 5:9—6:8; Mark 4:1-20
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Thursday in Lent 2, March 20
Mark 4:21-34
Mark 4:26-34 And he said, "The kingdom of God is as if a man should scatter
seed upon the ground, 27 and should sleep and rise night and day, and the seed
should sprout and grow, he knows not how. 28 The earth produces of itself, first
the blade, then the ear, then the full grain in the ear. 29 But when the grain is
ripe, at once he puts in the sickle, because the harvest has come." 30 And he
said, "With what can we compare the kingdom of God, or what parable shall we
use for it? 31 It is like a grain of mustard seed, which, when sown upon the
ground, is the smallest of all the seeds on earth; 32 yet when it is sown it grows
up and becomes the greatest of all shrubs, and puts forth large branches, so
that the birds of the air can make nests in its shade." 33 With many such
parables he spoke the word to them, as they were able to hear it; 34 he did not
speak to them without a parable, but privately to his own disciples he explained
everything.
A mustard seed is the smallest of seeds. When planted it grows into a large
shrub over ten feet in height. This small seed is also a symbol of faith. Years
ago there were necklaces, each of which had a tiny mustard seed enclosed in a
clear glass sphere to symbolize that one needs only a little faith for great things
to happen. The mustard seed of a parable of Jesus plants itself in us and it grows
and allows us to achieve things that we would have thought not possible.
Many times through periods of dark doubt and uncertainty, something within us
wonders if God is near us. He sends a prayer or word of encouragement (a
mustard seed) our way. Julian of Norwich may have said it best: “And all shall
be well and all shall be well and all manner of thing shall be well.”
Psalms 70, 71—74; Genesis 42:29-38; 1 Corinthians 6:12-20; Mark 4:21-34
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Friday in Lent 2, March 21
Mark 4:35-41
Mark 4:39-40 He woke up, rebuked the wind, and said to the sea, ‘Quiet! Be still!’
The wind ceased and there was great calm. Then he asked them, “Why are you
terrified? Do you not yet have faith?”
When I read this passage, it made me think about the word faith. Who can … and
at what age can … a person have total faith in God and in His power?
When I was three years of age, I lived in an apartment with my mother and brother.
One night a very powerful storm hit Knoxville. Trees were falling, rain was
pouring down, and there were warnings of tornadoes in the area. Now my mother
had started teaching my brother and me the Gospel, the Bible when we were very
young. During that storm, I climbed up in a chair, got on my knees, and prayed,
“Dear Lord, please make the storm stop, ‘cause me scared!” Right after I prayed,
the wind stopped blowing and the rain quit pouring. Everything became calm.
The power of prayer is an amazing thing. I learned at an early age that no matter
who you are or what age you are, if you have total faith in God anything is
possible.
Psalms 69—73; Genesis 43:1-15; 1 Cor. 7:1-9; Mark 4:35-41
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Saturday in Lent 2, March 22
Mark 5:1-20
Mark 5:19 “Go home to your friends, and tell them how much the Lord has done
for you, and how he has had mercy on you.”
A common message in the readings for today is that God is Generous. He is
generous with gifts, with wisdom, with love, and with mercy. It is not surprising
that we have difficulty grasping, believing, and trusting the purity of God’s gifts to
us and for us, for we are not that generous. Thus we may become afraid and even
shun these gifts of His Spirit. We must remember that God has no hidden agenda!
Allow yourself to be awe-inspired, not overwhelmed. Envelope yourself in the Gift
of God-His love, His generosity, His wisdom, and His Guidance.
Today, I will make a commitment to remember that God Loves Me, and to
incorporate just how profound and life-changing it is to believe and honor these
words. I will not be afraid of the vastness of His love. I will embrace it! I invite
you to do the same.
Psalms 75, 76—23, 27; Genesis 43:16-34; 1 Cor. 7:10-24; Mark 5:1-20
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Third Sunday in Lent, March 23
John 5:25-29
You are invited to participate in our reflection activity by reading the Gospel
passage—or another text—and writing your own reflection for this day.
My Reflection
Psalms 93, 96—34; Genesis 44:1-17; Rom. 8:1-10; John 5:25-29
23
Monday in Lent 3, March 24
Mark 5:21-43
The reading from Mark shows the power of Jesus to heal the sick and bring the
dead back to life. It begins with Jairus, a synagogue leader, who implores Jesus to
save the life of his twelve-year-old daughter, who is dying. On his way to heal the
sick child, Jesus encounters a woman who has had hemorrhages for twelve years.
She touches the garment of Jesus as the crowds are pressing against him and his
disciples. She is immediately healed, and Jesus realizes that His power has gone
out, but does not know to whom. When she reveals herself to Jesus and gets down
on her knees, he tells her to go in peace and be healed. Jesus continues on to the
home of Jairus, where he asks Jairus’s daughter to get up and walk—and she does.
Both the woman with hemorrhages and the daughter of Jairus are healed because
of faith in the power of Jesus. Our journey with Jesus by our side is about our own
faith in His power and love.
Psalms 80—77[, 79] Genesis 44:18-34 1 Corinthians 7:25-31 Mark 5:21-43
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Tuesday in Lent 3, March 25
Mark 6:1-13
Mark 6:7-10 Calling the Twelve to him, he sent them out two by two and gave them
authority over evil spirits. These were his instructions: “Take nothing for the
journey except a staff – no bread, no bag, no money in your belts. Wear sandals
but not an extra tunic. Whenever you enter a house, stay there until you leave that
town.”
“Be prepared.” Whether you have stated that motto as a Boy Scout or not, our
culture has ingrained upon us the need to be prepared. How then can we begin to
understand what the disciples set out to do? The plan was simple and the
instructions were few. There were no timelines or agenda, no “Plan B”. They
simply took the authority they were given by Jesus and set out. That must have
been both powerful and daunting. What would that look like today? I wonder if I
am too concerned with having a “Plan B” to be open to what I really need to do as
a Christian. It might involve changing the pattern I’ve so carefully sculpted for my
life and the lives of my family. It might involve letting go of details that are
important to how we attend our daily lives. My daily prayer is that I can become
more open to what lies before me and more capable of living into the gifts and
opportunities I have been given so that I can live more fully. It is a daunting task.
Psalms 78:1-39—78:40-72; Genesis 45:1-15; 1 Cor. 7:32-40; Mark 6:1-13
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Wednesday in Lent 3, March 26
Mark 6:13-29
Do you court favor with someone? While King Herod respected and feared John
the Baptist, out of impulse and a desire to please his family and friends, Herod had
John beheaded. Herod was a weak man. He took a strong stand on honoring his
word, and pleasing his guests without regard to the nature of the request. Such a
stand, however, is a sign of weakness and cowardice. When you found yourself
facing the conflict of acting honorably versus pleasing someone else, how did you
feel? Did you recognize the decision? What choice did you make?
Psalms 119:97-120—81, 82; Genesis 45:16-28; 1 Cor. 8:1-13; Mark 6:13-29
26
Thursday in Lent 3, March 27
Mark 6:30-46
Of all the miracles of Christ, none could be more mystifying than the feeding of
the five thousand. As is the case in so many New Testament stories, the role of the
apostles is that of the perfect foil to the Deity. Their disbelief is all-too-human.
I too would have been incredulous if asked to cater a gig of such size. No one
should expect us expect us to pull food out of thin air. Right?
But therein lies the miracle. After Christ invoked the blessing of His father, there
was not only an adequate supply of food, but a surfeit as well. So explain that.
As humans, this story defies our understanding and is deservedly called a miracle.
For a magician may pull a rabbit out of a hat, but only God's grace cause a miracle.
And only God can pull our salvation “out of thin air.”
Psalms [83] or 42, 43; Genesis 46:1-7, 28-34; 1 Cor. 9:1-15; Mark 6:30-46
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Friday in Lent 3, March 28
Mark 6:47-56
As I reflect on the miracle of the feeding of the multitudes in Mark, I am reminded
of the limitless power of God. Trusting in His power brings to light the fact that
nothing is impossible, if we put our trust in Him. I think we lose sight of His
magnitude; and perhaps we entertain doubts when life becomes frustrating. We
cannot fix today's problems on our own. Like the disciples who lost faith and
wanted to send the crowds away to forge for themselves, we need to realize that we
are sheep who desperately need a shepherd—a shepherd who knows what we need.
Psalms 88—91, 92; Genesis 47:1-26; 1 Cor. 9:16-27; Mark 6:47-56
28
Saturday in Lent 3, March 29
Mark 7:1-23
Jesus’ disciples were in serious trouble…in a boat…rowing hard…struggling
against the wind and waves. Jesus came to them—yes, walking on water—saying,
“Don’t be afraid,” “Take courage, I am here.”
We too row against powerful forces. At times, we get discouraged, become
frustrated, and feel weary, but we are never alone. God uses the storms in our lives
to stretch our faith, and every storm is an opportunity to trust God. Just as Jesus
sent the disciples into this situation and watched them struggle, he watches us and
our struggles. As he delivered them, he will deliver us. We cry out, and Jesus
comes to us. We are never out of his thoughts and concern; in fact, he prays for us
(John 17:9). He knows our circumstances and dangers and is with us, and many
times comes to us in unexpected ways.
In these verses of Mark, just as Jesus healed the disciples’ fear, he also healed the
sick. As our compassionate shepherd, he is with us always, especially in our
suffering. He gives us comfort, hope, direction, support and wisdom.
To rely on God is to face our trials with courage. He is faithful and does not try us
beyond our ability to bear. He always provides a solution. God uses our
weaknesses to demonstrate his power. Our blessings are many! Thanks be to God!
Psalms 87, 90—136; Genesis 47:27—48:7; 1 Cor. 10:1-13; Mark 7:1-23
29
Fourth Sunday in Lent, March 30
John 6:27-40
You are invited to participate in our reflection activity by reading the Gospel
passage—or another text—and writing your own reflection for this day.
My Reflection
Psalms 66, 67—19, 46; Genesis 48:8-22; Rom. 8:11-25; John 6:27-40
30
Monday in Lent 4, March 31
Mark 7:24-37
Looking for guidance in these two stories, which appear on the surface to be
simple accounts of healings, I consulted two respected sources. The first said that
they showed Jesus reaching out beyond the Hebrew community. The second said
that his response to the Gentile woman showed his reluctance to act beyond the
Hebrew community. Are both correct?
It has not come quickly, but finally, to me, these are stories about comfort zone.
Jesus has gone to a community not his own and appears to be seeking anonymity, a
good night's sleep, and a period of restorative privacy. But the local paparazzi are
on the job! Before he has time to get settled the first request comes, and a refusal
based on his tradition is countered well and successfully. Later he cures still
another outside Judaism, evidently without hesitation. He has stepped into a new
arena, and we Gentiles are the eventual beneficiaries.
In retirement I find living and serving primarily within my personal comfort zone a
lovely privilege. I tend to limit outreach - partially from sad experience - to those
areas I feel competent to handle without too much effort. This passage is forcing a
re-evaluation of several opportunities for service, service that I could, perhaps
should, and definitely don't want to, do.
Oh, fiddle!
Psalms 89:1-18—8:19-52; Genesis 49:1-28; 1 Cor. 10:14—11:1; Mark 7:24-37
31
Tuesday in Lent 4, April 1
Mark 8:1-10
The meaning in this passage is both physical and spiritual. The people have
nothing to eat and they are hungry. Jesus is filled with compassion, thinking “If I
send them home hungry, they will collapse on the way. Some have come a great
distance. They will collapse ‘on the way,’ on the road.” Jesus is the Way, the Road.
To walk the road of Jesus, we need a certain kind of nourishment. This is what
Jesus came to give.
The people are told to sit down. Jesus took the seven loaves, and after giving
thanks, he broke them and handed them to his disciples to distribute. And they
distributed them among the crowd. Jesus did not give out the food the people
needed. It came from him but as distributed by his disciples. The same happens
today. It is our task to feed the hungry–both physically and spiritually. All were
filled—4,000 people altogether—and there was bread left over, sign of God’s
abundance shared with his people.
Jesus sent the people away and immediately got into the boat with his disciples.,
leaving no room for misinterpretation. The disciples left because there was no self-
congratulation or glorying in their connections with Jesus the wonder worker.
Through the miracle the teaching had been given and that was it.
Lord, teach me to serve you as you deserve;
to give and not count the cost;
to fight and ignore the wounds;
to work and seek no reward
but knowing that I do your holy will.
Psalms 97, 99, [100]—[94], [95]; Genesis 49:29—50:14; 1 Cor. 11:17-34; Mark 8:1-10
32
Wednesday in Lent 4, April 2
Mark 8:11-26
Rediscovering Faith
These passages call us to awaken to God’s miracles, which are all around us. They
remind us to be aware of God’s constant work in our lives.
The daily duties we undertake—work, oversight of household financials, yard
duties, and meal preparation—can distract us from the blessings God constantly
provides. In Mark 8:19-20, Jesus reminds those who have forgotten their blessings
of the abundance that He provided to the multitudes. In these difficult economic
times, perhaps we question why such misfortune could be happening to us and yet
God continues to bless us with His abundance—if only we open our hearts and
minds to take note of it. His abundance takes many forms and can go unnoticed in
the fray of daily life. His abundance may enter our lives in the form of renewed
friendships, the natural beauty of the world we live in, a deeper understanding of
self and purpose in His creation; and even in opportunities that appear to not work
out to our immediate favor because He has another path in store for us.
In the final passages of this lesson, Jesus is asked to demonstrate another miracle,
though He had performed many already in the presence of those who questioned
Him. In verse 25, Jesus restores the blind man’s vision entirely and sends him
directly home so that His miracle will not be witnessed by those in the village. Let
us utilize this time in Lent to recognize the blessings God provides, however subtle
they may be.
Psalms 101, 109—119:121-144; Genesis 50:15-26; 1 Cor. 12:1-11; Mark 8:11-26
33
Thursday in Lent 4, April 3
Mark 8:27—9:1
Mark 8:29 "And you, who do you say I am?"
Jesus asked his disciples, "And you, who do you say I am?" Peter answered, "You
are the Christ, the Son of the living God.” This is a very personal question, but
Jesus demands that each person answer that question for himself. And we can only
answer as Peter did if we have had a personal encounter with Christ. Some people
know all about Christ, what he did and what has been written about him in the
Bible and by reputable theologians, but that is second-hand knowledge that does
not always change one’s life. It is the kind of thing we know about our American
president, for example. We all know what the President does and says, but do we
really know him? Second-hand knowledge is never sufficient to know someone..
So how do we know Christ?
We come to know Christ by following him, by learning from him, by loving him,
by searching for him in his church and in the Gospels and in each other. What will
your answer be when Jesus asks you, “Who do you say I am ?”
Johann Schwedler wrote:
Ask ye what great thing I know, that delights and stirs me so?
What the high reward I win? Whose the name I glory in?
Jesus Christ , the crucified.
Who defeats my fiercest foes? Who consoles my saddest woes?
Who revives my fainting heart, healing all its hidden smart?
Jesus Christ, the crucified.
This is that great thing I know; This delights and stirs me so:
Faith in him who died to save, him who triumphed o'er the grave,
Jesus Christ, the crucified. Amen.
Psalms 69—73; Exodus 1:6-22; 1 Cor. 12:12-6; Mark 8:27—9:1
34
Friday in Lent 4, April 4
Mark 9:2-13
The Transfiguration
Linens, dazzling white
such as no one on earth
could bleach them.
Swathed in pure light,
Jesus meets Elijah
and Moses atop
the mystic mountain.
Then, from a cloud, God
speaks words far from
foggy—but crystal clear
like baptismal water:
This is my Son,
the Beloved,
listen to him!
Christ swears three who
saw and heard to silent
secrecy until the Creator
makes all things new-
strips off the bandages,
robes the earth
in glory’s light,
rolls back the tombstone,
and scoops up
the pearl so dazzling white
such as no one on earth
could bleach Him.
--written to the glory of God
Psalms 102—107:1-32; Exodus 2:1-22; 1 Cor. 12:27—13:3; Mark 9:2-13
35
Saturday in Lent 4, April 5
Mark 9:14-29
Mark 9:27 “But Jesus took him by the hand and lifted him up, and he was able to
stand.”
The passage in Mark is clearly about a boy who had epilepsy. The boy’s father
asks Jesus for help in ridding his son of the disease (back then any illness like
epilepsy was thought to be demonic possession). When Jesus attempts the healing,
the boy has a major epileptic seizure. When he stopped, the onlookers thought the
boy was dead. Jesus then reached out and raised the boy up. This resurrection
healing is the same as what we all ask of Jesus. We seek to be raised by the hand of
God out of our illness or trouble or distress. In thinking they were expected to
drive out a demon, the disciples were unable to heal the boy of his seizures. The
end of the passage tells us that the disciples asked Jesus why he was able to heal
the boy and they could not. Jesus replied that what the boy needed was prayer.
Sometimes, nothing can heal or absolve us of our burdens but prayer. We should
be more aware of this truth and recognize that prayer has tremendous power to heal
each of us, whatever our affliction.
Psalms 107:33-43, 108—33; Exodus 2:23—3:15; 1 Cor. 3:1-13; Mark 9:14-29
36
Fifth Sunday in Lent, April 6
John 8:46-59
You are invited to participate in our reflection activity by reading the Gospel
passage—or another text—and writing your own reflection for this day.
My Reflection
Psalms 118—145; Exodus 3:16—4:12; Rom. 12:1-21; John 8:46-59
37
Monday in Lent 5, April 7
Mark 9:30-41
Jesus revealed this prophecy to his disciples: that the Son of man would be taken,
killed, and then on the third day he would rise from the dead. Upon hearing this,
the disciples became afraid; they discussed many questions among themselves,
thinking that Jesus didn’t know of their debate. Among other things, they wanted
to know which of them would be the most important of the twelve. Jesus explained
that all who accept and love all children of God will be equally important to the
Father. The disciples spoke of those that had been trying to help their fellow men
but who were not part of their movement to do the will of the Father and live their
lives in the manner of the Son. Jesus explained that anyone who strives to do the
will of the Father and live the life of the Son will receive the reward that is
promised to everyone.
Psalms 31—35; Exodus 4:10-31; 1 Cor. 14:1-19; Mark 9:30-41
38
Tuesday in Lent 5, April 8
Mark 9:42-50
Nothing should keep us from trusting completely in our Lord. Nothing should keep
us from seeking Him and developing a close, personal relationship with Him. Of
course, Jesus is not telling us to cut off our limbs or blind ourselves if we use one
of our body parts in committing a sin. He would not have us maim ourselves, but
rather He is emphasizing how important it is for us to yearn for and strive for
everlasting life with Him. Nothing should ever be so important to us that we would
allow it to come between us and God. Jesus is stressing to us the importance of
avoiding separation from God. He is further emphasizing community with each
other. Nothing we do should ever cause or prevent someone from coming to Him.
We should help each other, encouraging one another to develop and grow in our
spiritual journey, striving always to be closer to the Lord.
Psalms [120], 121-123—124-126, [127]; Exodus 5:1—6:1; 1 Cor. 14:20-33a, 39-40; Mark 9:42-50
39
Wednesday in Lent 5, April 9
Mark 10:1-16
Rabbi Hillel, a highly respected 1st century BCE theologian, taught that a man
could divorce his wife for unbinding her hair in public or over-salting his food.
This set the tone for a popular debate in which we find the Pharisees questioning
Jesus. His answer must have surprised them. It is certainly surprising to us.
But in reading this passage, we must remember that the Pharisees were not really
interested in what Jesus thought about divorce or any other matter. They were
trying to test Him and His knowledge of Jewish law. Marriage is considered sacred
to God and should be taken seriously. Unfortunately, sometimes circumstances
dictate that divorce be granted. We should always seek God’s will for our lives and
pray for His guidance. Remember, as a young child, how we completely trusted
and believed everything our parents told us? We believed they knew what was
right and we believed that what they told us was the truth. We trusted them to take
care of us and to ensure our needs were met. So, too, should be our trust in our
Heavenly Father. He wants us to love Him and come to Him as a child comes to a
parent or other trusted elder. He wants to be a part of our lives and He wants us to
depend on Him completely. We should take to Him in prayer all of the problems
and concerns that affect our lives and the lives of others, trusting Him to guide us.
Let us remember also that by raising the idea of marriage to an almost unattainable
level of perfection, Christ called us to look beyond petty legal contracts and see
marriage as a deeply sacred bond. He invoked a mystical image: the two become
one body...what God has united, no man must divide. This summons a profound
respect, encouraging single people not to enter casually and challenging those
considering exit to understand union more deeply. Mark coupled this teaching with
the Blessing of Children narrative for a reason. Christ tells us that it is to [children]
that the Kingdom of God belongs. To enter the Kingdom, we must receive it as a
child. Like the "beginner mind" of Zen, this child approaches every relationship,
married or otherwise, with wonder and unconditional love, accepting people just as
they are.
Psalms 119:145-176—128-130; Exodus 7:8-24; 2 Cor. 2:14—3:6; Mark 10:1-16
40
Thursday in Lent 5, April 10
Mark 10:17-31
Mark 10: 21-22 Jesus … said to him, “You are lacking in one thing. Go, sell what
you have, and give to the poor and you will have treasure in heaven; then come,,
follow me. At that statement his face fell, and he went away sad, for he had many
possessions.
I have read of a woman who remembers the first time she read this story. She said
that she was seven years old, reading Mark’s Gospel in bed. When she got to verse
25, she became so alarmed that she slammed the Bible shut, jumped out of bed,
and went running down the hall. She shook her mother out of a sound sleep.
“Mom,” she whispered urgently, “Jesus says that rich people don’t go to heaven!”
Her mother replied, “We are not rich. Go back to bed.” She knew better. She knew
that she had all she needed plus plenty more. Later she would learn of fascinating
attempts to soften the text (the use of the word "camel" for "rope," of "eye of the
needle" for "a small gate"), but the little girl inside her knew that these words of
Jesus were clear and hard and scary—and she knew that when she was only seven
years old.
Did you know anything when you were very young that you deny or ignore today?
What the man in the story in Mark lacks is that he does not lack. This man is
possessed—by his possessions. Jesus is offering to free him of his possessions, to
cure him of his excess. But the rich man turns his back.
Will you turn your back?
Psalms 131-133—141, 142; Exodus 7:25—8:19; 2 Cor. 3:7-18; Mark 10:17-31
41
Friday in Lent 5, April 11
Mark 10:32-45
Mark 10:45 “For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and
to give his life as a ransom for many.”
How many times do I find myself running here and there tending to all ages and all
problems, getting anxious and edgy and finally worn out and finally mad? Mad,
maybe, that there never seems to be enough time for me!
In reading this last line of today’s Gospel reading in Mark, I was reminded that that
is what is expected of me. I am able, and organized, and fed, and clothed, and well,
and I can do for others, and I can do a lot. I needed this reminder, though. I needed
to count my blessings and I did. I counted, and I realize that I can do more, way
more than I do. It all pales compared to our Father and his Son. How could I begin
to complain? Shame on me.
I have always said the busier the more productive. Somehow though I have not
been so busy with my daily readings, or my quiet prayer time, or so organized that
I always start my day with prayer and meditation. This Lent I am going to do more
for myself, but it is going to lie in spiritual quests—daily spiritual quests. I will do
this so that I can better serve, especially with a better attitude, I will be found
reading, every day, I promise.
Psalms 22—141, 143; Exodus 9:13-35; 2 Cor. 4:1-12; Mark 10:32-45
42
Saturday in Lent 5, April 12
Mark 10:46-52
Mark 10:47 Many of the people scolded him and told him to be quiet. But he
shouted even more loudly, “Son of David, have mercy on me!”
Bartimaeus was sitting by the road outside Jericho. When he heard that Jesus was
passing he called, “Jesus, son of David! Have mercy on me!” There would be no
story had he stopped shouting as others told him to. But he persisted, louder, until
Jesus called for him and healed this blind beggar. Had he not persisted, even to the
point of annoyance, would he have been healed?
There is in this story an appreciation of faith and persistence. Jesus told him, “Go,
your faith has made you well.” Do I have the faith to persist and keep calling to
God in prayer and meditation? I hope for the willing and ready faith to seek the
power of God in my life. Jesus is asking us, just like Bartimaeus, “What do you
want me to do for you?”
Psalms 137, 144—42, 43; Exodus 10:21—11:8; 2 Cor. 4:13-18; Mark 10:46-52
43
Holy Week, Palm Sunday
April 13
You are invited to participate in our reflection activity by reading the Gospel
passage—or another text—and writing your own reflection for this day.
Luke 19:41-48
My Reflection
Psalms 24, 29—103; Zech. 9:9-12, 1 Tim. 6:12-16—Zech. 12:9-11, 13:1, 7-9; Luke 19:41-48;
44
HOLY WEEK
Monday of Holy Week April 14
Psalms 51—69;1-23; Lam. 1:1-2, 6-12; 2 Cor. 1:1-17, Marl 11:12-25
Mark 11:12-25
Jesus approaches Jerusalem and sees a beautiful fig tree in the distance, yet is has
no fruit. He enters Jerusalem and sees the beautiful Temple, yet it has no fruit. No
longer is it God's house, a house of prayer. It has become a den or robbers who
extort money from the worshippers. Jesus cleanses the temple of the
moneychangers so that faith may grow once again.
Jesus says that we should have faith in God. Faith grows a beautiful fruit and a life
full of surprises. Faith does not deliver us from suffering. Suffering allows the fruit
of the Holy Spirit to be poured into our life.
Whatever you ask in prayer, have faith that you will receive it. It may not come in
the way you expect, but an answer will come. Thus clean out the temple of your
soul by forgiving others and God's forgiveness will produce wonderful fruit.
Psalms 51—69:1-23; Lam. 1:1-2, 6-12; 2 Cor. 1:17; Mark 11:12-25
45
HOLY WEEK
Tuesday of Holy Week April 15
Mark 11:27-33
Mark 11:29 “By what authority are you doing these things?”
By “these things” the scribes and Pharisees were referring to the cleansing of the
Temple and Jesus’ teaching about prayer and forgiveness. “You have defiled the
House of the God for all people….begin prayer by asking forgiveness. Then you
might be able to believe God will hear your prayer.”
The question of authority is absurd. So Jesus answers with an unanswerable
question, leaving the Elders baffled and answerless. Don’t concern yourselves with
outward shows of piety but approach your spirituality with simple humility. Be
conscious of forgiveness of others so you will be able to believe you are forgiven.
Psalms 6, 12—94, Lam. 1:17-22; 2 Cor. 1:8-22; Mark 11:27-33
46
HOLY WEEK
Wednesday of Holy Week April 16
Mark 12:1-11
In this passage, Jesus is speaking to an audience of chief priests, scribes and elders
in the temple court in Jerusalem. He had, the previous day, driven out the money
changers and other traders, and had been teaching a spellbound crowd. The learned
audience in His presence had questioned Jesus’ authority and, at the same time,
were afraid of the crowd of people who esteemed Him so highly. The parable of
the vineyard is clearly allegorical and conveys the history of the prophets sent by
God to the people of Israel, as well as foreshadowing the imminent death of Jesus.
In the parable, the people, the tenants of the vineyard, believe that if they kill the
son of the owner, they will inherit the vineyard. The vineyard is, metaphorically,
the Kingdom of God. Thus, in the conclusion of this passage, Jesus, prophetically,
warns that those who put him to death will not inherit the Kingdom of God, and
that He, rejected and crucified, will be the foundation of a new faith in God (the
Christian Church). Conversely, one could read this to mean that accepting Jesus as
the Son of God is to inherit the Kingdom.
Are we tenants of this vineyard? Does the vineyard represent our souls? In the
prayer of confession, I admit I have not loved God with my whole heart, not loved
my neighbors as myself. Am I not admitting that I, too, within my heart, in some
measure, have rejected God and not given Him what is due to Him?
Psalms 55—74; Lam. 2:1-9; 2 Cor. 1:23—2:11; Mark 12:1-11
HOLY WEEK
47
Maundy Thursday April 17
Mark 14:12-25
Mark 14:22-24 While they were eating, Jesus took bread, gave thanks and broke it,
and gave it to his disciples, saying, “Take it; this is my body.” Then he took the
cup, gave thanks and offered it to them, and they all drank from it. “This is my
blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many,” he said to them.
Today is Maundy Thursday, a day like no other. In the evening, many of us will
gather to celebrate in community the institution of the Holy Eucharist. We can
prepare ourselves for the commemoration of its institution by remembering that
when we receive the cup and the bread we participate in the blood and body of
Christ and thereby become one body. It is fitting to examine ourselves before
partaking of the cup and bread so that we may discern the nature of the body of
which we will become a part. Our act of participation in the Eucharist should be
informed and intentional.
I have come to understand that in the sacrament of the Eucharist we—those of us
who have been marked in baptism as Christ’s own forever—participate in a visible
expression of our communion with Christ and with the Church and with each
member of the Church. We are members of the Body of Christ; indeed, it may be
that it is only when we are in communion with each other that the Body of Christ,
the church, can even exist.
In communion we join with Christ so that we become one—one body. As Thomas
Merton once wrote about the Feast of Corpus Christi: “It is anomalous and even
blasphemous to claim Christ for one's self as Lord and Master apart from his Body,
a community united in common need of him, who is aware of its failures, a
community in pilgrimage, realizing that they must help one another as pilgrims,
with no one lording it over them for Christ is their only Lord.”
Psalms 102—142, 143; Lam. 2:10-18; 1 Cor. 10:14-17; 11:27-32; Mark 14:12-25
48
HOLY WEEK
Good Friday April 18
Morning: John 13:36-38
John:13:36-38 Simon Peter asked him, “Lord, where are you going?” Jesus
replied, “Where I am going, you cannot follow now, but you will follow later.”
Peter asked, “Lord, why can’t I follow you now? I will lay down my life for you.”
Then Jesus answered, “Will you really lay down your life for me? I tell you the
truth, before the rooster crows, you will disown me three times!”
Most of us, thank goodness, are not asked to lay down our lives for Christ! But we
are asked to lay down our egos, the façades we present to the world, our little white
lies, our unkind thoughts about others—the list goes on and on. How many times
have we ignored the car trying to change lanes or exit a parking lot? Or
rationalized not tithing our income? Or gossiped about someone? Or fudged on our
income tax return? In fact, most of us disown Jesus time and again without even
giving it a thought. But Jesus, in His infinite mercy and wisdom, promises Peter
and all of us that we will follow Him—afterward. He knows that we will fail time
and again. That’s why He accepted death; He was willing to make a sacrifice for us
so that we can follow Him to heaven. Today, Good Friday, let us meditate on how
we can honor Jesus’ sacrifice by turning our lives more toward Him.
Psalm 22; Lam. 3:1-9, 19-33; 1 Peter 1:10-20; John 13:36-38
49
HOLY WEEK
Good Friday April 18
Evening: John 19:38-42
Isn’t life like this? A seed is planted in our hearts and minds and it takes time to
sprout, grow and produce something in us. That is the reminder of our Good Friday
story. Joseph of Arimathea goes to prepare Jesus’ body for burial – and who is
with him?—Nicodemus, whom we met much earlier in Jesus’ life.
It was Nicodemus the Pharisee who vigorously questioned Jesus early in His
ministry. At that time we were not sure that Nicodemus understood Jesus or
believed anything that this young rabbi was preaching. Now on this day we see that
Jesus planted a seed in Nicodemus that has sprouted, grown, and produced fruit—
because Nicodemus is risking everything to bury Jesus—he is risking his
reputation, his community status, his position in the Pharisean religious sect, and
yes he is risking his life and probably his family’s life as well.
Here we are at the end of Jesus’ life we are offered a “first” lesson of faith. Jesus
planted seeds and that is our job as well. St. Paul will echo this very mission-
minded teaching in his writing. We plant seeds, and God does the watering.
Psalms 40, 54; Lam. 3:1-9, 19-33; 1 Peter 1:10-20; John 19:38-42
50
HOLY WEEK
Holy Saturday April 19
[No Gospel reading on Holy Saturday.]
You are invited to participate in our reflection activity today by reviewing past
reflection and journaling here about your Lenten season.
s
Psalms 88, 27; Lam. 3:37-58; Heb. 4:1-16; Rom. 8:1-11 [No Gospel reading on Holy Saturday]
51
Easter Sunday April 20
Morning readings:
Psalms 148, 149, 150; Exodus 12:1-14; John 1:1-18
Evening readings:
Psalms 113, 114, or 118; Isaiah 51:9-11; Luke 24:13-35, or John 20:19-23
Alleluia! You are invited to participate in our reflection activity by reading the
Gospel passage—or another text—for Easter Sunday and writing your own
reflection for this joyous day as we enter the season of Easter.
My Easter Reflection
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