As we draw closer to Holy Week, the atmosphere of the liturgy becomes more intense. We begin to see the shadow of the Cross falling over the...
As we draw closer to Holy Week, the atmosphere of the liturgy becomes more intense. We begin to see the shadow of the Cross falling over the Gospel.
Censure. The Book of Wisdom says the Just One is a "censure of our thoughts." Sometimes, when we try to live a holy life, people find us "obnoxious" or "difficult." Why? Because a life of integrity shines a light on the compromises of others. Jesus experienced this to the ultimate degree. He was hated not because He did evil, but because His goodness was a silent censure to a world comfortable with its own darkness. If you face opposition for doing what is right, remember you are in good company.
Close. "The Lord is close to the brokenhearted," says the Psalm. In the Gospel, Jesus is surrounded by people who want to kill Him, yet He continues to speak the truth. He knows the feeling of being hunted, misunderstood, and rejected. If your heart is broken today—perhaps by betrayal or by the feeling that the world is "besetting" you—know that the Lord is not watching from a distance. He is "close." He has felt the weight of the plot against Him so that He can carry the weight of the plot against you.
Confidence. Despite the threats, Jesus moves with total confidence. Why? Because He knows where He is from and who sent Him. His "hour had not yet come," and until it did, no human hand could touch Him. This is the confidence we are called to have. When we know we belong to God, we don't have to live in fear of what people think or what they can do to us. Our lives are in the hands of the Father, and that is the only security that matters.
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