Using Our Gifts
Let's take a few minutes to review today's Gospel reading. Jesus tells us a parable about a master who, before setting out on a journey, gives coins to three of his servants. The first servant, who receives five coins, makes good use of his gift. He earns five more. The second servant, who receives two coins, also puts the money to good use and earns two more. The third servant receives only one coin. He does nothing at all with his gift; he merely buries it in a hole in the ground.
When the master returns, he calls his servants to him and asks to see what they have accomplished with the coins he had given them. He is pleased with the first two servants, compliments them on their faithfulness, and promises to give them greater responsibilities (i.e., a higher status). But when the third servant shows up with just his single coin, the master is furious. “You wicked, lazy servant!” he exclaims.
This might seem a little extreme to us. The servant doesn't lose his money. He doesn't waste it foolishly or throw it away. He just buries it. So why is his master so upset?
He's upset because gifts are meant to be used. They are designed to bring about some good in the life of the receiver. The master wants his gifts to be fruitful for his servants, but that requires some effort on their part. The first two servants make the effort and reap the rewards. The third does nothing.
The master really doesn't even expect that much out of his servants. He asks the third servant, “Should you not then have put my money in the bank?” At least it would have earned some interest that way, and the lazy servant wouldn't have had to do much at all.
In the end, because he refuses to use his gift, the “useless servant” is deprived of that gift and tossed into the darkness outside his master's house.
This parable can give us some insight into the Catholic doctrine that both faith and good works are necessary for salvation. God gives us the great gift of faith in His Son and our Savior Jesus Christ. This faith can indeed save us but only if we actively accept it and use it. Like the master in today's Gospel, God expects His gift to bear fruit. He expects us to use our faith, to live it, and to bring it to bear on the world around us. If we merely bury our faith somewhere deep in a hole inside us and leave it there, we will end up living like we don't have it at all. Our faith will do no good to us or to anyone else, just like the lazy servant's coin does no good to him or his master.
The Letter of James emphasizes this point: “What good is it, my brothers and sisters, if you say you have faith but do not have works? Can faith save you? If a brother or sister is naked and lacks daily food, and one of you says to them, 'Go in peace; keep warm and eat your fill,' and yet you do not supply their bodily needs, what is the good of that? So faith by itself, if it has no works, is dead” (2:14-17).
Questions for reflection:
1. How am I living my Christian faith? Am I making God's gift of faith fruitful in my life? How? Am I more like the two active servants or the lazy one?
2. What other gifts has God given me? How am I using those?
3. Am I neglecting any of God's gifts? Have I buried them away? How might I dig them up, dust them off, and put them to use?
Sunday, November 13, 2011
Friday, November 11, 2011
Rosary Meditations: The Fourth Sorrowful Mystery – The Carrying of the Cross
Scripture References
Matthew 27:32; Mark 15:21; Luke 23:26-31; John 19:17
The Story in Brief
When the soldiers led Jesus out to be crucified on Calvary, they made Him carry His cross. He had been so badly wounded and was so exhausted that He fell three times along the way. The soldiers compelled Simon of Cyrene to help Jesus carry His cross so He would not die before He reached the scene of crucifixion. Along the way, Jesus met His mother Mary. He encountered Veronica, who compassionately wiped His bloody, sweaty face, and He left His own holy image on the cloth she used. He also spoke with some of the women of Jerusalem who were lamenting His fate. Finally, Jesus reached Calvary. He was about to die for our sins.
Points to Ponder
1. The Biblical account of Jesus carrying His cross is very brief, but the Church's Tradition offers us further details and insights through the Stations of the Cross. Take a few minutes to look over a few Stations of the Cross websites (like the ones at EWTN and Creighton University) and ponder the following.
2. Matthew, Mark, and Luke tell us that the Roman soldiers compelled Simon of Cyrene to carry Jesus' cross. John emphasizes that Jesus carried the cross Himself. Both these these statements can be true if we think about how Jesus would have been very weak during His walk to Calvary. He perhaps started out carrying His cross and then required assistance from Simon. Picture Jesus carrying His cross. Remember how wounded He already was from the scourging and crowning of thorns.
3. What was Simon of Cyrene's response was when he was forced to carry the cross with Jesus?
4. Mark mentions that Simon was the father of Alexander and Rufus. This reference suggests that Simon's sons were well-known in the early Christian community and probably Christians themselves. Ponder the significance of this.
5. The Stations of the Cross tell us that Jesus fell once before Simon of Cyrene was pressed into service. Reflect on Jesus' pain and weakness as He fell to the ground beneath the heavy cross. Remember that Jesus was carrying the cross on account of our sins and falls.
6. Jesus met His mother Mary as He walked toward Calvary. Meditate on this meeting. Picture the expressions of the Son and the mother. Imagine what they might have said to one another. What was Mary feeling as she saw her Son's pain? What did Jesus feel as He gazed on His mother?
7. Consider the behavior of the crowd that lined the streets as Jesus walked by. Imagine the range of responses the Jews and Romans had as they looked at Jesus. Some probably abused Him as a criminal. Others may have felt sorry for Him. Were His followers mixed in with the crowd? What were they thinking when they saw Jesus?
8. According to the Stations of the Cross, a woman named Veronica wiped Jesus' sweaty, bloody face with a cloth. Picture Jesus' Holy Face. Consider Veronica's courage as she flaunted the Roman soldiers to approach Jesus and minister to Him.
9. When Veronica looked at the cloth she had used to wipe Jesus' face, she discovered an image of Jesus. What a reward for her kindness and care! Try to picture what the image on Veronica's cloth might have looked like. Note also that the name “Veronica” means “true icon” and was probably assigned to the woman after the incident along the way of the Cross. That incident probably became the defining moment of her life. It was enough to give her a new name.
10. Jesus fell a second time, but He got up again and kept going despite His pain. Ponder His courage.
11. Luke tells us that some women were in the crowd, beating their breasts and wailing for Jesus. They were clearly distressed at seeing Jesus so mistreated. Reflect on both their internal thoughts and external actions.
12. Read Jesus' response to the women in Luke 23:28-31. His words were mysterious. They suggested a time of trial and probably pointed to more than one future event, including the fall of Jerusalem in 70 A.D. and perhaps even the end times. Meditate on Jesus' words.
13. Jesus fell one more time as He neared Calvary. By this time, He would have been exhausted, but He got up and continued on His path to the cross. Ponder Jesus' complete self-surrender.
14. Walk with Jesus along the Way of the Cross. Place yourself next to Him and journey with Him on the path to Calvary.
Application Questions
1. How do you take up your cross and follow Jesus? What are the crosses in your life? How do you respond to them? Do you join your personal Way of the Cross to Jesus'? How might your life be different if you did so more often?
2. Are there any sins that you need to confess? Do you struggle with any particular sins? Do you take them to Jesus and ask for help?
3. When have you fallen in your life? What did those falls feel like? When you fall, do you get up and keep going? Why or why not?
4. Do you share your pain with others? Do others share their pain with you? What are those experiences like? How do you help other people carry their crosses? How do you comfort those who are in pain?
5. How do you think you would have responded if you had been part of the crowd that was watching Jesus as He carried His cross to Calvary?
6. What are the defining moments in your spiritual life?
7. Are you a courageous person? Why or why not?
8. Do you weep for the world and for the people around you? Does your prayer include intercession for the whole world?
9. Have you surrendered you entire life, your entire self, to God? If not, will you do so?
Prayer, Prayer, and More Prayer
Blessing and Adoration – Lord Jesus, we bow before You in silent adoration as we contemplate Your way of the cross. We adore You as we watch You struggle in pain and exhaustion. And You did it all for us that we might be with You in Heaven forever. We love You, Jesus.
Praise – We praise You, Jesus, for Your courage. We praise You for surrendering Your entire Self to the Father. We praise You for carrying Your cross for us. We praise You for Your tremendous love.
Thanksgiving – Once again, Lord, how can we thank You enough? You suffered unspeakable pain and anguish for us when You carried the cross. You taught us how to carry our own crosses, and You walk right along with us when we must. How can we ever thank You enough?
Intercession – Jesus, we lift up to You all those who must carry their crosses. We lift up those who are in pain. We lift up those who must stand beside those who suffer and comfort them. We lift up those who mourn. Hold them all in You loving arms, Lord.
Petition – Jesus, please accompany us as we carry our crosses. Please give us courage and perseverance, and please never leave us alone. Please give us compassion for the suffering around us that we may comfort them and help them carry their crosses.
Quotes from the Saints
“...as they went out, they laid hold of Simon, but when they drew near to the place in which they would crucify Him, they laid the cross upon Him that He might bear it. Simon obtained not this office by chance, but was brought to the spot by God's providence, that he might be found worthy of mention in the Scriptures of the Gospel, and of the ministry of the cross of Christ. And it was not only meet that the Savior should carry His cross, but meet also that w e should take part therein, filling a carriage so beneficial to us. Yet would it not have so profited us to take it on us, as we have profited by His taking it upon Himself.” - Origen
“...since this Simon is not called Be a man of Jerusalem, but a Cyrenian, (for Cyrene is a city of Libya,) fitly is he taken to mean the nations of the Gentiles, which were once foreigners and strangers to the covenants, but now by obedience are heirs of God, and joint heirs with Christ. Whence also Simon is fitly interpreted 'obedient,' and Cyrene 'an heir.' But he is said to come from a country place, for a country place is called 'pagos' in Greek, wherefore those whom we see to be aliens from the city of God, we call pagans. Simon then coming out from the country carries the cross after Jesus, when the Gentile nations leaving pagan rites embrace obediently the footsteps of our Lord's Passion.” - St. Bede
“For no one else accepted to bear the cross, because the wood was counted an abomination. Accordingly upon Simon the Cyrenian they imposed as it were to his dishonor the bearing of the cross, which others refused. Here is fulfilled that prophecy of Isaiah, Whose government shall be upon his shoulder. For the government of Christ is His cross; for which the Apostle says, God has exalted him. And as for a mark of dignity, some wear a belt, others a head dress, so our Lord the cross. And if you seek, you will find that Christ does not reign in us save by hardships, whence it comes that the luxurious are the enemies of the cross of Christ.” - Theophyl.
“Christ therefore bearing His cross, already as a conqueror carried His trophies. The cross is laid upon His shoulders, because whether Simon or Himself bore it, both Christ bore it in the man, and the man in Christ. Nor do the accounts of the Evangelists differ, since the mystery reconciles them. And it is the rightful order of our advance that Christ should first Himself erect the trophy of His cross, then hand it down to be raised by His martyrs. He is not a Jew who bears the cross, but an alien and a foreigner, nor does he precede but follow, according as it is written, Let him take up his cross, and follow me.” - St. Ambrose
“A large multitude indeed followed the cross of Christ, but with very different feelings. For the people who had demanded his death were rejoicing that they should see Him dying, the women weeping that he was about to die. But He was followed by the weeping only of women. Not because that vast crowd of men was not also sorrowful at His Passion, but because the less esteemed female sex could more freely give utterance to what they thought.” - St. Bede
“By these days He signifies the time of the siege and captivity which was coming upon them from the Romans, of which He had said before, Woe to them that are with child, and give suck in those days. It is natural, when captivity by an enemy is threatening, to seek for refuge in fastnesses or hidden places, where men may lie concealed. And so it follows, Then shall they begin to say to the mountains, Fall on us; and to the hills, Cover us. For Josephus relates, that when the Romans pressed hard upon them, the Jews sought hastily the caverns of the mountains, and the lurking places in the hills. It may be also that the words, Blessed are the barren, are to be understood of those of both sexes, who have made themselves eunuchs for the kingdom of heaven's sake, and that it is said to the mountains and hills, Fall upon us, and Cover us, because all who are mindful of their own weakness, when the crisis of their temptations breaks upon them, have sought to be protected by the example, precept, and prayers, of certain high and saintly men.” - St. Bede
“They compel Jesus to bear the cross, regarding it as unholy, and therefore avoiding the touch of it themselves. And He bearing His cross went forth into a place called the place of a skull, which is called in Hebrew Golgotha, where they crucified Him. The same was done typically by Isaac, who carried the wood. But then the matter only proceeded as far as his father's good pleasure ordered, but now it was fully accomplished, for the reality had appeared.” - St. John Chrysostom
“Great spectacle, to the profane a laughing-stock, to the pious a mystery. Profaneness sees a King bearing a cross instead of a scepter; piety sees a King bearing a cross, thereon to nail Himself, and afterwards to nail it on the foreheads of kings. That to profane eyes was contemptible, which the hearts of Saints would afterwards glory in; Christ displaying His own cross on His shoulders, and bearing that which was not to be put under a bushel, the candlestick of that candle which was now about to burn.” - St. Augustine
“He carried the badge of victory on His shoulders, was conquerors do. Some say that the place of Calvary was where Adam died and was buried; so that in the very place on where death reigned, there Jesus erected His trophy.” - St. John Chrysostom
Matthew 27:32; Mark 15:21; Luke 23:26-31; John 19:17
The Story in Brief
When the soldiers led Jesus out to be crucified on Calvary, they made Him carry His cross. He had been so badly wounded and was so exhausted that He fell three times along the way. The soldiers compelled Simon of Cyrene to help Jesus carry His cross so He would not die before He reached the scene of crucifixion. Along the way, Jesus met His mother Mary. He encountered Veronica, who compassionately wiped His bloody, sweaty face, and He left His own holy image on the cloth she used. He also spoke with some of the women of Jerusalem who were lamenting His fate. Finally, Jesus reached Calvary. He was about to die for our sins.
Points to Ponder
1. The Biblical account of Jesus carrying His cross is very brief, but the Church's Tradition offers us further details and insights through the Stations of the Cross. Take a few minutes to look over a few Stations of the Cross websites (like the ones at EWTN and Creighton University) and ponder the following.
2. Matthew, Mark, and Luke tell us that the Roman soldiers compelled Simon of Cyrene to carry Jesus' cross. John emphasizes that Jesus carried the cross Himself. Both these these statements can be true if we think about how Jesus would have been very weak during His walk to Calvary. He perhaps started out carrying His cross and then required assistance from Simon. Picture Jesus carrying His cross. Remember how wounded He already was from the scourging and crowning of thorns.
3. What was Simon of Cyrene's response was when he was forced to carry the cross with Jesus?
4. Mark mentions that Simon was the father of Alexander and Rufus. This reference suggests that Simon's sons were well-known in the early Christian community and probably Christians themselves. Ponder the significance of this.
5. The Stations of the Cross tell us that Jesus fell once before Simon of Cyrene was pressed into service. Reflect on Jesus' pain and weakness as He fell to the ground beneath the heavy cross. Remember that Jesus was carrying the cross on account of our sins and falls.
6. Jesus met His mother Mary as He walked toward Calvary. Meditate on this meeting. Picture the expressions of the Son and the mother. Imagine what they might have said to one another. What was Mary feeling as she saw her Son's pain? What did Jesus feel as He gazed on His mother?
7. Consider the behavior of the crowd that lined the streets as Jesus walked by. Imagine the range of responses the Jews and Romans had as they looked at Jesus. Some probably abused Him as a criminal. Others may have felt sorry for Him. Were His followers mixed in with the crowd? What were they thinking when they saw Jesus?
8. According to the Stations of the Cross, a woman named Veronica wiped Jesus' sweaty, bloody face with a cloth. Picture Jesus' Holy Face. Consider Veronica's courage as she flaunted the Roman soldiers to approach Jesus and minister to Him.
9. When Veronica looked at the cloth she had used to wipe Jesus' face, she discovered an image of Jesus. What a reward for her kindness and care! Try to picture what the image on Veronica's cloth might have looked like. Note also that the name “Veronica” means “true icon” and was probably assigned to the woman after the incident along the way of the Cross. That incident probably became the defining moment of her life. It was enough to give her a new name.
10. Jesus fell a second time, but He got up again and kept going despite His pain. Ponder His courage.
11. Luke tells us that some women were in the crowd, beating their breasts and wailing for Jesus. They were clearly distressed at seeing Jesus so mistreated. Reflect on both their internal thoughts and external actions.
12. Read Jesus' response to the women in Luke 23:28-31. His words were mysterious. They suggested a time of trial and probably pointed to more than one future event, including the fall of Jerusalem in 70 A.D. and perhaps even the end times. Meditate on Jesus' words.
13. Jesus fell one more time as He neared Calvary. By this time, He would have been exhausted, but He got up and continued on His path to the cross. Ponder Jesus' complete self-surrender.
14. Walk with Jesus along the Way of the Cross. Place yourself next to Him and journey with Him on the path to Calvary.
Application Questions
1. How do you take up your cross and follow Jesus? What are the crosses in your life? How do you respond to them? Do you join your personal Way of the Cross to Jesus'? How might your life be different if you did so more often?
2. Are there any sins that you need to confess? Do you struggle with any particular sins? Do you take them to Jesus and ask for help?
3. When have you fallen in your life? What did those falls feel like? When you fall, do you get up and keep going? Why or why not?
4. Do you share your pain with others? Do others share their pain with you? What are those experiences like? How do you help other people carry their crosses? How do you comfort those who are in pain?
5. How do you think you would have responded if you had been part of the crowd that was watching Jesus as He carried His cross to Calvary?
6. What are the defining moments in your spiritual life?
7. Are you a courageous person? Why or why not?
8. Do you weep for the world and for the people around you? Does your prayer include intercession for the whole world?
9. Have you surrendered you entire life, your entire self, to God? If not, will you do so?
Prayer, Prayer, and More Prayer
Blessing and Adoration – Lord Jesus, we bow before You in silent adoration as we contemplate Your way of the cross. We adore You as we watch You struggle in pain and exhaustion. And You did it all for us that we might be with You in Heaven forever. We love You, Jesus.
Praise – We praise You, Jesus, for Your courage. We praise You for surrendering Your entire Self to the Father. We praise You for carrying Your cross for us. We praise You for Your tremendous love.
Thanksgiving – Once again, Lord, how can we thank You enough? You suffered unspeakable pain and anguish for us when You carried the cross. You taught us how to carry our own crosses, and You walk right along with us when we must. How can we ever thank You enough?
Intercession – Jesus, we lift up to You all those who must carry their crosses. We lift up those who are in pain. We lift up those who must stand beside those who suffer and comfort them. We lift up those who mourn. Hold them all in You loving arms, Lord.
Petition – Jesus, please accompany us as we carry our crosses. Please give us courage and perseverance, and please never leave us alone. Please give us compassion for the suffering around us that we may comfort them and help them carry their crosses.
Quotes from the Saints
“...as they went out, they laid hold of Simon, but when they drew near to the place in which they would crucify Him, they laid the cross upon Him that He might bear it. Simon obtained not this office by chance, but was brought to the spot by God's providence, that he might be found worthy of mention in the Scriptures of the Gospel, and of the ministry of the cross of Christ. And it was not only meet that the Savior should carry His cross, but meet also that w e should take part therein, filling a carriage so beneficial to us. Yet would it not have so profited us to take it on us, as we have profited by His taking it upon Himself.” - Origen
“...since this Simon is not called Be a man of Jerusalem, but a Cyrenian, (for Cyrene is a city of Libya,) fitly is he taken to mean the nations of the Gentiles, which were once foreigners and strangers to the covenants, but now by obedience are heirs of God, and joint heirs with Christ. Whence also Simon is fitly interpreted 'obedient,' and Cyrene 'an heir.' But he is said to come from a country place, for a country place is called 'pagos' in Greek, wherefore those whom we see to be aliens from the city of God, we call pagans. Simon then coming out from the country carries the cross after Jesus, when the Gentile nations leaving pagan rites embrace obediently the footsteps of our Lord's Passion.” - St. Bede
“For no one else accepted to bear the cross, because the wood was counted an abomination. Accordingly upon Simon the Cyrenian they imposed as it were to his dishonor the bearing of the cross, which others refused. Here is fulfilled that prophecy of Isaiah, Whose government shall be upon his shoulder. For the government of Christ is His cross; for which the Apostle says, God has exalted him. And as for a mark of dignity, some wear a belt, others a head dress, so our Lord the cross. And if you seek, you will find that Christ does not reign in us save by hardships, whence it comes that the luxurious are the enemies of the cross of Christ.” - Theophyl.
“Christ therefore bearing His cross, already as a conqueror carried His trophies. The cross is laid upon His shoulders, because whether Simon or Himself bore it, both Christ bore it in the man, and the man in Christ. Nor do the accounts of the Evangelists differ, since the mystery reconciles them. And it is the rightful order of our advance that Christ should first Himself erect the trophy of His cross, then hand it down to be raised by His martyrs. He is not a Jew who bears the cross, but an alien and a foreigner, nor does he precede but follow, according as it is written, Let him take up his cross, and follow me.” - St. Ambrose
“A large multitude indeed followed the cross of Christ, but with very different feelings. For the people who had demanded his death were rejoicing that they should see Him dying, the women weeping that he was about to die. But He was followed by the weeping only of women. Not because that vast crowd of men was not also sorrowful at His Passion, but because the less esteemed female sex could more freely give utterance to what they thought.” - St. Bede
“By these days He signifies the time of the siege and captivity which was coming upon them from the Romans, of which He had said before, Woe to them that are with child, and give suck in those days. It is natural, when captivity by an enemy is threatening, to seek for refuge in fastnesses or hidden places, where men may lie concealed. And so it follows, Then shall they begin to say to the mountains, Fall on us; and to the hills, Cover us. For Josephus relates, that when the Romans pressed hard upon them, the Jews sought hastily the caverns of the mountains, and the lurking places in the hills. It may be also that the words, Blessed are the barren, are to be understood of those of both sexes, who have made themselves eunuchs for the kingdom of heaven's sake, and that it is said to the mountains and hills, Fall upon us, and Cover us, because all who are mindful of their own weakness, when the crisis of their temptations breaks upon them, have sought to be protected by the example, precept, and prayers, of certain high and saintly men.” - St. Bede
“They compel Jesus to bear the cross, regarding it as unholy, and therefore avoiding the touch of it themselves. And He bearing His cross went forth into a place called the place of a skull, which is called in Hebrew Golgotha, where they crucified Him. The same was done typically by Isaac, who carried the wood. But then the matter only proceeded as far as his father's good pleasure ordered, but now it was fully accomplished, for the reality had appeared.” - St. John Chrysostom
“Great spectacle, to the profane a laughing-stock, to the pious a mystery. Profaneness sees a King bearing a cross instead of a scepter; piety sees a King bearing a cross, thereon to nail Himself, and afterwards to nail it on the foreheads of kings. That to profane eyes was contemptible, which the hearts of Saints would afterwards glory in; Christ displaying His own cross on His shoulders, and bearing that which was not to be put under a bushel, the candlestick of that candle which was now about to burn.” - St. Augustine
“He carried the badge of victory on His shoulders, was conquerors do. Some say that the place of Calvary was where Adam died and was buried; so that in the very place on where death reigned, there Jesus erected His trophy.” - St. John Chrysostom
Sunday, November 6, 2011
A Little Something Extra...Thirty-Second Sunday in Ordinary Time
End Times
As the end of the liturgical year approaches, the Church directs our attention toward the end times, especially toward Jesus' second coming and the resurrection of the dead that will accompany it.
Paul offers us a glimpse of the end times in today's second reading, 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18. Remember that Paul was writing to the Thessalonians because his time with them had been cut short by an attempt on his life. They had questions that he was addressing in his letter, and one of the biggest ones was “What is going to happen at the end?”
Take a moment to reread Paul's answer. “For the Lord himself, with a word of command, with the voice of an archangel and with the trumpet of God, will come down from heaven, and the dead in Christ will rise first. Then we who are alive, who are left, will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. Thus we shall always be with the Lord.”
This sounds both exciting and mysterious, doesn't it? We can turn to the Catechism to help us understand Paul's words. Paragraphs 988-1004 explain the Church's teaching on the end times.
“We firmly believe,” the Catechism begins, “and hence we hope that, just as Christ is truly risen from the dead and lives for ever, so after death the righteous will live for ever with the risen Christ and He will raise them up on the last day” (989).
The Catechism anticipates our questions: 1. What is rising from the dead? 2. How do the dead rise? 3. Who will rise? 4. When will the dead rise?
1. The Catechism reminds us that when we die, our souls separate from our bodies. Our souls go to meet God while our bodies decay. Rising from the dead refers to a reversal of this separation. Our souls and bodies will be reunited through the power of Jesus' own Resurrection (997).
2. How will this happen? Remember that when the Risen Christ appeared to the disciples on Easter Sunday, He appeared in His glorified Body. This glorified Body was still His own Body, but it was changed. We, too, will have glorified, “spiritual” bodies at the resurrection of the dead. This remains a mystery to us now, but we believe that it will happen to us because Jesus has promised us a share in His Resurrection (999-1000).
3. The Catechism tell us that all the dead will rise. The good will experience a resurrection of life, and the evil will experience a resurrection of judgment (998). As Paul says, those who are still alive at the end will be caught up to the Lord to be with Him always. We can expect that they, too, will receive glorified bodies.
4. We don't know when the end will come. Jesus says that no one knows the day or the hour, but we must stay alert and watch constantly for His coming so that we will be ready to greet Him with joy, wonder, and love.
As the end of the liturgical year approaches, the Church directs our attention toward the end times, especially toward Jesus' second coming and the resurrection of the dead that will accompany it.
Paul offers us a glimpse of the end times in today's second reading, 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18. Remember that Paul was writing to the Thessalonians because his time with them had been cut short by an attempt on his life. They had questions that he was addressing in his letter, and one of the biggest ones was “What is going to happen at the end?”
Take a moment to reread Paul's answer. “For the Lord himself, with a word of command, with the voice of an archangel and with the trumpet of God, will come down from heaven, and the dead in Christ will rise first. Then we who are alive, who are left, will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. Thus we shall always be with the Lord.”
This sounds both exciting and mysterious, doesn't it? We can turn to the Catechism to help us understand Paul's words. Paragraphs 988-1004 explain the Church's teaching on the end times.
“We firmly believe,” the Catechism begins, “and hence we hope that, just as Christ is truly risen from the dead and lives for ever, so after death the righteous will live for ever with the risen Christ and He will raise them up on the last day” (989).
The Catechism anticipates our questions: 1. What is rising from the dead? 2. How do the dead rise? 3. Who will rise? 4. When will the dead rise?
1. The Catechism reminds us that when we die, our souls separate from our bodies. Our souls go to meet God while our bodies decay. Rising from the dead refers to a reversal of this separation. Our souls and bodies will be reunited through the power of Jesus' own Resurrection (997).
2. How will this happen? Remember that when the Risen Christ appeared to the disciples on Easter Sunday, He appeared in His glorified Body. This glorified Body was still His own Body, but it was changed. We, too, will have glorified, “spiritual” bodies at the resurrection of the dead. This remains a mystery to us now, but we believe that it will happen to us because Jesus has promised us a share in His Resurrection (999-1000).
3. The Catechism tell us that all the dead will rise. The good will experience a resurrection of life, and the evil will experience a resurrection of judgment (998). As Paul says, those who are still alive at the end will be caught up to the Lord to be with Him always. We can expect that they, too, will receive glorified bodies.
4. We don't know when the end will come. Jesus says that no one knows the day or the hour, but we must stay alert and watch constantly for His coming so that we will be ready to greet Him with joy, wonder, and love.
Wednesday, November 2, 2011
Rosary Meditations: The Third Sorrowful Mystery – The Crowning of Thorns
Scripture References
Matthew 27:27-31; Mark 15:16-20; John 19:2-5
The Story in Brief
Before Jesus was crucified, the Roman soldiers decided to have a bit of “fun” at His expense. They gathered around Him, stripped Him, and clothed Him in a reddish purple robe. They made a crown of thorns and forced it onto His head. Then they put a reed in His right hand. They knelt before Him in mockery, saying “Hail, King of the Jews.” They spat on Him and struck Him. When they had finished, they dressed Him in His own clothes and led Him away to be crucified.
Points to Ponder
1. Before the Roman soldiers crucified Jesus, they tortured Him by crowning Him with thorns and mocking Him as “King of the Jews!” Why would the soldiers do such a thing?
2. Matthew and Mark say that the soldiers, probably the leaders, gathered the whole cohort around Jesus. Try to picture the various soldiers. Do you think they all participated in this cruel mockery? Or were there some who were appalled?
3. The soldiers stripped Jesus. Remember that He was badly wounded from the scourging. Consider His pain as His wounds were torn open.
4. Think about the humiliation Jesus suffered when He was forcibly stripped. Remember that He could have stopped all of this at any point, but He chose not to.
5. The soldiers dressed Jesus in a robe. Matthew tells us that it was scarlet while Mark and John describe it as purple. The Greek words used by Mark and John both refer to a reddish purple that could easily resemble a faded scarlet. More to the point, ponder the significance of these colors. Why would Matthew tell us that the cloak was scarlet? What does the color scarlet make you think of? Why would Mark and John identify the color as purple? Why did they choose a different focus? What does purple signify? Recall that purple dye was generally quite expensive and used for clothing of the elite classes.
6. Ponder the crown of thorns. The thorns the soldiers used were not the small thorns we encounter on roses. They were long, tough, and sharp. Some authors have suggested that the soldiers may have pushed the thorns through an old basket and placed that on Jesus' head. In any case, these thorns would have caused Jesus great agony as they were forced into His scalp.
7. The soldiers placed a reed in Jesus' right hand. Why did they do so?
8. The soldiers then mocked Jesus, kneeling before Him in false veneration and saying “Hail, King of the Jews.” Picture the scene. Reflect on how much this mockery must have hurt Jesus. He loved these men. He came to save them, too.
9. Consider the irony here. Jesus is a King, the King of the entire universe. Those mocking Him didn't know that, of course. They didn't realize that they should have been falling on their faces before Jesus in adoration. Instead, they laughed at their cruel jokes.
10. The soldiers went even further than nasty words and false bows. They spat on Jesus. They snatched the reed from His hand and hit Him on the head with it. What is your response to this kind of violence?
11. After the soldiers had tired of their abhorrent game, they stripped Jesus of the robe and put His own clothes back on Him. Then they led Him away to be crucified. Ponder this final scene.
12. In John's Gospel, Pilate presented Jesus to the crowd one more time while He was still wearing the crown of thorns and the robe. This is not contradictory to the other Gospels. John simply chose to include an event that the others, for whatever reason, don't mention. The crowds rejected Jesus and called for His crucifixion. Meditate on Pilate's actions, Jesus' appearance, and the crowd's response.
13. What does the crowning of thorns reveal to us about Jesus? Consider His silence in the face of the soldiers' cruel mockery and physical abuse.
Application Questions
1. Have you ever seen or been part of a crowd that was being cruel to another person? What did it make you feel like? Did you do anything to stop it?
Matthew 27:27-31; Mark 15:16-20; John 19:2-5
The Story in Brief
Before Jesus was crucified, the Roman soldiers decided to have a bit of “fun” at His expense. They gathered around Him, stripped Him, and clothed Him in a reddish purple robe. They made a crown of thorns and forced it onto His head. Then they put a reed in His right hand. They knelt before Him in mockery, saying “Hail, King of the Jews.” They spat on Him and struck Him. When they had finished, they dressed Him in His own clothes and led Him away to be crucified.
Points to Ponder
1. Before the Roman soldiers crucified Jesus, they tortured Him by crowning Him with thorns and mocking Him as “King of the Jews!” Why would the soldiers do such a thing?
2. Matthew and Mark say that the soldiers, probably the leaders, gathered the whole cohort around Jesus. Try to picture the various soldiers. Do you think they all participated in this cruel mockery? Or were there some who were appalled?
3. The soldiers stripped Jesus. Remember that He was badly wounded from the scourging. Consider His pain as His wounds were torn open.
4. Think about the humiliation Jesus suffered when He was forcibly stripped. Remember that He could have stopped all of this at any point, but He chose not to.
5. The soldiers dressed Jesus in a robe. Matthew tells us that it was scarlet while Mark and John describe it as purple. The Greek words used by Mark and John both refer to a reddish purple that could easily resemble a faded scarlet. More to the point, ponder the significance of these colors. Why would Matthew tell us that the cloak was scarlet? What does the color scarlet make you think of? Why would Mark and John identify the color as purple? Why did they choose a different focus? What does purple signify? Recall that purple dye was generally quite expensive and used for clothing of the elite classes.
6. Ponder the crown of thorns. The thorns the soldiers used were not the small thorns we encounter on roses. They were long, tough, and sharp. Some authors have suggested that the soldiers may have pushed the thorns through an old basket and placed that on Jesus' head. In any case, these thorns would have caused Jesus great agony as they were forced into His scalp.
7. The soldiers placed a reed in Jesus' right hand. Why did they do so?
8. The soldiers then mocked Jesus, kneeling before Him in false veneration and saying “Hail, King of the Jews.” Picture the scene. Reflect on how much this mockery must have hurt Jesus. He loved these men. He came to save them, too.
9. Consider the irony here. Jesus is a King, the King of the entire universe. Those mocking Him didn't know that, of course. They didn't realize that they should have been falling on their faces before Jesus in adoration. Instead, they laughed at their cruel jokes.
10. The soldiers went even further than nasty words and false bows. They spat on Jesus. They snatched the reed from His hand and hit Him on the head with it. What is your response to this kind of violence?
11. After the soldiers had tired of their abhorrent game, they stripped Jesus of the robe and put His own clothes back on Him. Then they led Him away to be crucified. Ponder this final scene.
12. In John's Gospel, Pilate presented Jesus to the crowd one more time while He was still wearing the crown of thorns and the robe. This is not contradictory to the other Gospels. John simply chose to include an event that the others, for whatever reason, don't mention. The crowds rejected Jesus and called for His crucifixion. Meditate on Pilate's actions, Jesus' appearance, and the crowd's response.
13. What does the crowning of thorns reveal to us about Jesus? Consider His silence in the face of the soldiers' cruel mockery and physical abuse.
Application Questions
1. Have you ever seen or been part of a crowd that was being cruel to another person? What did it make you feel like? Did you do anything to stop it?
2. Have you ever been abused and mocked? How did you respond? Where did you turn for help?
3. Is Jesus Christ the King of your life? Why or why not? What difference does it make in your life when Jesus is in command?
4. Do people or things sometimes take Jesus' place as King of your life? Why? What are they? How might you put these people or things in their proper positions?
5. Is there any mental or physical pain that Jesus can't understand? Do you bring your mental and physical pain to Jesus? When you do so, is that pain easier to bear? How so?
6. Do you value silence in the face of abuse? Why or why not?
Prayer, Prayer, and More Prayer
Blessing and Adoration – Jesus, we bow our heads in silent adoration as we contemplate You wearing the crown of thorns and the robe of mockery. We know that You could have stopped the whole thing at any moment, but You didn't because You were doing it all for us. We love You, Jesus.
Praise – We praise You, Jesus, for Your great courage, patience, and love in the face of such cruelty as You experienced during the crowning of thorns. We praise You for loving us so much that You willingly suffered this kind of brutality.
Thanksgiving – And we thank You, Lord. We can never thank You enough for what You have done to save us. You experienced pain beyond telling, both physical and emotional. But You never complained. You love us that much, Lord, and we can never thank You enough.
Intercession – Jesus, we lift up to You all those who are experiencing physical and/or mental abuse. Please wrap them up in Your love, comfort them, and give them strength. We lift up their abusers. Touch their hearts, Lord, and change them. We lift up those who are too afraid to stand up for those they see being mocked and abused. Fill them with courage, Lord, so they may do what they know is right.
Petition – Jesus, please give us the strength to bear all of our sufferings and to unite our pain with Yours. Please help us to imitate You when we are mocked and abused and not lash out at our abusers but continue to love them and pray for them.
Quotes from the Saints
“He had been styled King of the Jews, and the Scribes and Priests had brought this charge against Him, that He claimed sovereignty over the Jewish nation; hence this mockery of the soldiers, taking away His own garments, they put on Him a scarlet cloak to represent that purple fringe which kings of old used to wear, for the diadem they put on Him a crown of thorns, and for the regal scepter give Him a reed, and perform adoration to Him as to a king.” - St. Jerome
“What should we henceforth care if any one insults us, after Christ has thus suffered? The utmost that cruel outrage could do was put in practice against Christ; and not one member only, but His whole body suffered injuries; His head from the crown, the reed, and the buffetings; His face which was spit upon; His cheeks which they smote with the palms of their hands; His whole body from the scourging, the stripping to put on the cloak, and the mockery of homage; His hands from the reed which they put into them in mimicry of a scepter; as though they were afraid of omitting aught of indignity.” - St. John Chrysostom
“The Lord having taken upon Him all the infirmities of our body, is then covered with the scarlet colored blood of all the martyrs, to whom is due the kingdom with Him; He is crowned with thorns, that is, with the sins of the Gentiles who once pierced Him, for there is a prick in thorns of which is woven the crown of victory for Christ. In the reed, He takes into His hand and supports the weakness and frailty of the Gentiles; and His head is smitten therewith that the weakness of the Gentiles sustained by Christ's hand may rest on God the Father, who is His head.” - St. Hilary
“But instead of the diadem, they put on Him a crown of thorns, wherefore it goes on, And platted a crown of thorns, and put it about his head. And for a royal scepter they give Him a reed, as Matthew writes, and they bow before Him as a king, wherefore there follows, And began to salute him, Hail, King of the Jews! And that the soldiers worshiped Him as one who falsely called Himself God, is clear from what is added: And bowing their knees, worshiped him, as though He pretended to be God.” St. Bede
“For instead of a diadem, they put upon Him a crown of thorns, and a purple robe to represent the purple robe which kings wear. Matthew says, a scarlet robe, but scarlet and purple are different names for the same color. And though the soldiers did this in mockery, yet to us their acts have a meaning. For by the crown of thorns is signified the taking of our sins upon Him, the thorns which the earth of our body brings forth. And the purple robe signifies the flesh crucified. For our Lord is robed in purple, wherever He is glorified by the triumphs of holy martyrs.” - St. Bede
3. Is Jesus Christ the King of your life? Why or why not? What difference does it make in your life when Jesus is in command?
4. Do people or things sometimes take Jesus' place as King of your life? Why? What are they? How might you put these people or things in their proper positions?
5. Is there any mental or physical pain that Jesus can't understand? Do you bring your mental and physical pain to Jesus? When you do so, is that pain easier to bear? How so?
6. Do you value silence in the face of abuse? Why or why not?
Prayer, Prayer, and More Prayer
Blessing and Adoration – Jesus, we bow our heads in silent adoration as we contemplate You wearing the crown of thorns and the robe of mockery. We know that You could have stopped the whole thing at any moment, but You didn't because You were doing it all for us. We love You, Jesus.
Praise – We praise You, Jesus, for Your great courage, patience, and love in the face of such cruelty as You experienced during the crowning of thorns. We praise You for loving us so much that You willingly suffered this kind of brutality.
Thanksgiving – And we thank You, Lord. We can never thank You enough for what You have done to save us. You experienced pain beyond telling, both physical and emotional. But You never complained. You love us that much, Lord, and we can never thank You enough.
Intercession – Jesus, we lift up to You all those who are experiencing physical and/or mental abuse. Please wrap them up in Your love, comfort them, and give them strength. We lift up their abusers. Touch their hearts, Lord, and change them. We lift up those who are too afraid to stand up for those they see being mocked and abused. Fill them with courage, Lord, so they may do what they know is right.
Petition – Jesus, please give us the strength to bear all of our sufferings and to unite our pain with Yours. Please help us to imitate You when we are mocked and abused and not lash out at our abusers but continue to love them and pray for them.
Quotes from the Saints
“He had been styled King of the Jews, and the Scribes and Priests had brought this charge against Him, that He claimed sovereignty over the Jewish nation; hence this mockery of the soldiers, taking away His own garments, they put on Him a scarlet cloak to represent that purple fringe which kings of old used to wear, for the diadem they put on Him a crown of thorns, and for the regal scepter give Him a reed, and perform adoration to Him as to a king.” - St. Jerome
“What should we henceforth care if any one insults us, after Christ has thus suffered? The utmost that cruel outrage could do was put in practice against Christ; and not one member only, but His whole body suffered injuries; His head from the crown, the reed, and the buffetings; His face which was spit upon; His cheeks which they smote with the palms of their hands; His whole body from the scourging, the stripping to put on the cloak, and the mockery of homage; His hands from the reed which they put into them in mimicry of a scepter; as though they were afraid of omitting aught of indignity.” - St. John Chrysostom
“The Lord having taken upon Him all the infirmities of our body, is then covered with the scarlet colored blood of all the martyrs, to whom is due the kingdom with Him; He is crowned with thorns, that is, with the sins of the Gentiles who once pierced Him, for there is a prick in thorns of which is woven the crown of victory for Christ. In the reed, He takes into His hand and supports the weakness and frailty of the Gentiles; and His head is smitten therewith that the weakness of the Gentiles sustained by Christ's hand may rest on God the Father, who is His head.” - St. Hilary
“But instead of the diadem, they put on Him a crown of thorns, wherefore it goes on, And platted a crown of thorns, and put it about his head. And for a royal scepter they give Him a reed, as Matthew writes, and they bow before Him as a king, wherefore there follows, And began to salute him, Hail, King of the Jews! And that the soldiers worshiped Him as one who falsely called Himself God, is clear from what is added: And bowing their knees, worshiped him, as though He pretended to be God.” St. Bede
“For instead of a diadem, they put upon Him a crown of thorns, and a purple robe to represent the purple robe which kings wear. Matthew says, a scarlet robe, but scarlet and purple are different names for the same color. And though the soldiers did this in mockery, yet to us their acts have a meaning. For by the crown of thorns is signified the taking of our sins upon Him, the thorns which the earth of our body brings forth. And the purple robe signifies the flesh crucified. For our Lord is robed in purple, wherever He is glorified by the triumphs of holy martyrs.” - St. Bede
Sunday, October 30, 2011
A Little Something Extra...Thirty-First Sunday in Ordinary Time
Bad Examples
The Scriptures offer an abundance of specific instructions about what we must do to live a good life that is pleasing to God. Sometimes, however, the Bible also teaches us by showing us what not to do.
Today's first reading and Gospel present two bad examples: the corrupt Levites and the proud scribes and Pharisees. In the first reading, the prophet Malachi scolds the Levites, and in the Gospel, Jesus chastises the scribes and Pharisees. Both Malachi and Jesus point out the many flaws of these religious leaders, give them a much-needed lesson in humility, and offer them a chance to change.
The First Reading: Malachai 1:14b – 2:2b, 8-10
The Levites were the priests of the Old Testament. Their job was to teach the Law, give the people an example of holiness, and offer the prescribed sacrifices in the Temple. Apparently, they also assumed the role of judges in conflicts between the Israelites.
In this reading, God, though the prophet Malachai, lodges several complaints against the Levites:
1. they have turned aside from the way of holiness;
2. they have caused others to falter and grow weak through bad advice or lack of proper instruction;
3. they are not keeping their side of the covenant (i.e, they are not giving themselves to God in loving service); and
4. they show partiality in their decisions (and perhaps take bribes?).
The Levites had already been punished for their misdeeds. The people who were supposed to look up to them as examples of holiness now look down on them with contempt and derision.
These wayward Levites will be subject to further chastisement if they do not turn away from their wickedness. “I will send a curse upon you and of your blessing I will make a curse,” God threatens through Malachai. Remember, though, that when God punishes, He does so to lead stubborn hearts and minds to repentance and conversion.
What must the Levites do, then, if they are to follow God's will? They must listen to God, take His words to heart, give glory to His name, change their ways, behave as children of the one God, remember that they are brothers of the people they are to serve, keep the covenant, be faithful to each other, and practice humility.
The Gospel: Matthew 23:1-12
The scribes and Pharisees were the teachers of the Law in Jesus' time. They were supposed to be compassionate and loving leaders who taught by word and holy example.
In the Gospel, Jesus lodges numerous complaints against the scribes and Pharisees:
1. they do not practice what they preach;
2. they place burdens on the people, but they do not help them carry those burdens (i.e., they create an excess of rules regulations, but they do not help the people fulfill them);
3. they are proud; and
4. they do good works only to be recognized and approved by others.
What will to happen to the scribes and Pharisees if they refuse to change their ways? Jesus warns, “Whoever exalts himself will be humbled.”
What, then, must the scribes and Pharisees do to please God? They must discover humility, remember that God is their Teacher, Father, and Master, become servants to others, and live in unity with their brothers and sisters.
If the Levites, scribes, and Pharisees had only listened to the Word of God and changed their ways (and perhaps some of them did), these bad examples who show us how not to live might have become our fellow travelers along the path to God.
The Scriptures offer an abundance of specific instructions about what we must do to live a good life that is pleasing to God. Sometimes, however, the Bible also teaches us by showing us what not to do.
Today's first reading and Gospel present two bad examples: the corrupt Levites and the proud scribes and Pharisees. In the first reading, the prophet Malachi scolds the Levites, and in the Gospel, Jesus chastises the scribes and Pharisees. Both Malachi and Jesus point out the many flaws of these religious leaders, give them a much-needed lesson in humility, and offer them a chance to change.
The First Reading: Malachai 1:14b – 2:2b, 8-10
The Levites were the priests of the Old Testament. Their job was to teach the Law, give the people an example of holiness, and offer the prescribed sacrifices in the Temple. Apparently, they also assumed the role of judges in conflicts between the Israelites.
In this reading, God, though the prophet Malachai, lodges several complaints against the Levites:
1. they have turned aside from the way of holiness;
2. they have caused others to falter and grow weak through bad advice or lack of proper instruction;
3. they are not keeping their side of the covenant (i.e, they are not giving themselves to God in loving service); and
4. they show partiality in their decisions (and perhaps take bribes?).
The Levites had already been punished for their misdeeds. The people who were supposed to look up to them as examples of holiness now look down on them with contempt and derision.
These wayward Levites will be subject to further chastisement if they do not turn away from their wickedness. “I will send a curse upon you and of your blessing I will make a curse,” God threatens through Malachai. Remember, though, that when God punishes, He does so to lead stubborn hearts and minds to repentance and conversion.
What must the Levites do, then, if they are to follow God's will? They must listen to God, take His words to heart, give glory to His name, change their ways, behave as children of the one God, remember that they are brothers of the people they are to serve, keep the covenant, be faithful to each other, and practice humility.
The Gospel: Matthew 23:1-12
The scribes and Pharisees were the teachers of the Law in Jesus' time. They were supposed to be compassionate and loving leaders who taught by word and holy example.
In the Gospel, Jesus lodges numerous complaints against the scribes and Pharisees:
1. they do not practice what they preach;
2. they place burdens on the people, but they do not help them carry those burdens (i.e., they create an excess of rules regulations, but they do not help the people fulfill them);
3. they are proud; and
4. they do good works only to be recognized and approved by others.
What will to happen to the scribes and Pharisees if they refuse to change their ways? Jesus warns, “Whoever exalts himself will be humbled.”
What, then, must the scribes and Pharisees do to please God? They must discover humility, remember that God is their Teacher, Father, and Master, become servants to others, and live in unity with their brothers and sisters.
If the Levites, scribes, and Pharisees had only listened to the Word of God and changed their ways (and perhaps some of them did), these bad examples who show us how not to live might have become our fellow travelers along the path to God.
Thursday, October 27, 2011
Rosary Meditations: The Second Sorrowful Mystery – The Scourging at the Pillar
Scripture References
Matthew 27:26; Mark 15:15; Luke 23:16, 22; John 19:1
The Story in Brief
Judas led an armed crowd to the Garden of Gethsemane to arrest Jesus, Who was subsequently brought before the high priest and council, Herod, and Pontius Pilate. Peter, who was standing in the courtyard waiting to hear the results of the trials, denied Jesus three times exactly as Jesus had predicted. The Jews called for Jesus' crucifixion, but Pilate was unwilling. He offered to release Jesus according to the custom of the Jewish feast, but the Jews chose Barabbas instead and continued to insist that Jesus be crucified. Pilate finally gave in, symbolically washed his hands of the matter, and turned Jesus over to the Roman soldiers to be scourged and executed.
Points to Ponder
1. Because the actual scourging of Jesus at the pillar takes up only one verse in Matthew, Mark, and John and receives two brief references in Luke, you may wish to spend some time meditating on the events leading up the scourging. Carefully read Matthew 26:47 – 27:26; Mark 14:43 – 15:15; Luke 22:47 – 23:25; and John 18:1 – 19:6, and ponder some of the points below.
2. Think about the scene of Jesus' betrayal. Consider the following: how the crowd comes to arrest Jesus with swords and clubs; Judas' betraying kiss; Jesus' response of “Friend, do what you are here to do”; the crowd's reaction when Jesus said “I AM”; the meaning of “I AM”; the altercation between Peter and the high priest's servant; the healing of the servant's ear; Jesus' acceptance of His arrest so that the “Scriptures be fulfilled”; and the disciples' desertion
3. Meditate on Jesus' trial before the high priest. Consider the following: the false testimony against Jesus; Jesus' silence in the face of the accusations; Jesus' testimony of “From now on you will see the Son of Man seated at the right hand of Power and coming on the clouds of heaven”; the high priest's verdict; and the abuse Jesus receives at the hands of the Jews
4. Ponder Peter's denial of Jesus. Consider the following: the reasons for Peter's denial; Jesus' prediction and response; Peter's violent outburst; and Peter's remorse.
5. Think about Jesus' trial before Pilate. Consider the following: the Jews' accusations; Pilate's questions to Jesus; Jesus' silence in the face of His accusers; the dream of Pilate's wife; Jesus' words to Pilate about the kingdom in John's Gospel; the Jews' choice of Barabbas; Pilate's fear; Pilate's verdict of “not guilty”; how Pilate caved in to the Jews when they implied that if he were to let Jesus go, he would be betraying Caesar; the Jews' claim that they had no king but Caesar and their cries to crucify Jesus; and how Pilate washed his hands of the matter and declared himself innocent of Jesus' blood.
6. Reflect on Jesus' trial before Herod in Luke's Gospel. Consider the following: why Luke includes this scene; Jesus' silence; the mockery and abuse Jesus endured; and how Herod sent Jesus back to Pilate dressed in an elegant robe.
7. Ponder the manner in which Jesus was scourged. Roman soldiers lashed Him repeatedly with a whip that probably had at least two “tails” tipped with metal balls. The Jews limited their scourgings to thirty-nine lashes, but the Romans did not. For more detailed information about the scourging, see this website. Please be warned; it contains disturbing material.
8. Reflect on Jesus' extreme pain, and remember that He suffered that pain because of our sins.
9. Consider how strong Jesus' love was. He loved His tormentors even as they scourged Him. And He loves us even when we sin.
10. Is there any pain that Jesus cannot understand?
11. Remember that Jesus could have stopped the scourging, and the entire Passion, at any point. He was and is God. But He chose to suffer it for our sake, to save us, and bring us home to Heaven to be with Him forever. Ponder this amazing truth.
12. Place yourself in the sandals of those who witnessed the scourging. What did they see? How did they react?
Application Questions
1. How have you betrayed Jesus throughout your life? Have you repented of your sins and confessed them? Do you understand that Jesus forgives you and loves you even when you do betray Him?
2. How do you respond when you are falsely accused by someone?
3. In what ways have you, like Peter, denied Jesus? How did you feel afterward?
4. Have you ever been influenced to do something you knew was wrong? Have you ever followed the crowd instead of your conscience? Why did you do so? How did you feel afterward?
5. Do you truly realize, do you truly understand, what Jesus endured for you?
6. How should you respond to Jesus' self-giving love?
7. Do you realize that Jesus completely understands your pain? How might this realization change your relationship with Him and your view of the sufferings in your own life?
Prayer, Prayer, and More Prayer
Blessing and Adoration – We bow our heads in silent adoration before You, our suffering Jesus. We adore You and we bless You, for You suffered unspeakable pain and anguish for our sake. How can we ever truly grasp Your wondrous love for us, Lord?
Praise – Jesus, we praise You for Your great courage and love. You stood silently before Your accusers and allowed Yourself to be abused and scourged. You could have stopped it all at any moment, but You chose to continue out of love for us. May Your praises ring out in Heaven and earth, Lord Jesus!
Thanksgiving – Lord, how can we ever thank You enough? You were betrayed, denied, and abused by the ones You love. You suffered for us. You bore the pain and anguish of our sin. And You did it all willingly that we may be with You in Heaven forever. How can we ever thank You enough, Lord?
Intercession – Lord, we lift up to You all those in pain. Comfort them and strengthen them, Lord. We lift up those who even today do not recognize You as the divine Son. Touch their hearts that they may know You, Lord. We lift up those who are tempted to bow to the will of the crowd instead of following their consciences. Give them courage, Lord. We lift up those who are physically abused. Hold them closely in Your arms and protect them, Lord. We lift up their abusers. Change their hearts and ways, Lord.
Petition – Jesus, help us always to remember that no matter what we must suffer, You are always there beside us, and You understand fully what we are going through. Help us to turn to You for strength and courage and self-control. Forgive us our sins, Lord as we fall before You in sorrow and repentance.
Quotes from the Saints
“It should be known that Pilate administered the Roman law, which enacted that every one who was crucified should first be scourged. Jesus then is given up to the soldiers to be beaten, and they tore with whips that most holy body and capacious bosom of God. This was done that we might be delivered from those stripes of which it is said, Many stripes shall be to the wicked. ” - St. Jerome
“See the Lord is made ready for the scourge, see now it descends upon Him! That sacred skin is torn by the fury of the rods; the cruel might of repeated blows lacerates His shoulders. Ah me! God is stretched out before man, and He, in whom not one trace of sin can be discerned, suffers punishment as a malefactor.” - St. John Chrysostom
“When the Jews had cried out that they did not wish Jesus to be released on account of the passover, but Barabbas, Then Pilate therefore took Jesus, and scourged Him. Pilate seems to have done this for no reason but to satisfy the malice of the Jews with some punishment short of death. On which account he allowed his band to do what follows, or perhaps even commanded them.” - St. Augustine
Matthew 27:26; Mark 15:15; Luke 23:16, 22; John 19:1
The Story in Brief
Judas led an armed crowd to the Garden of Gethsemane to arrest Jesus, Who was subsequently brought before the high priest and council, Herod, and Pontius Pilate. Peter, who was standing in the courtyard waiting to hear the results of the trials, denied Jesus three times exactly as Jesus had predicted. The Jews called for Jesus' crucifixion, but Pilate was unwilling. He offered to release Jesus according to the custom of the Jewish feast, but the Jews chose Barabbas instead and continued to insist that Jesus be crucified. Pilate finally gave in, symbolically washed his hands of the matter, and turned Jesus over to the Roman soldiers to be scourged and executed.
Points to Ponder
1. Because the actual scourging of Jesus at the pillar takes up only one verse in Matthew, Mark, and John and receives two brief references in Luke, you may wish to spend some time meditating on the events leading up the scourging. Carefully read Matthew 26:47 – 27:26; Mark 14:43 – 15:15; Luke 22:47 – 23:25; and John 18:1 – 19:6, and ponder some of the points below.
2. Think about the scene of Jesus' betrayal. Consider the following: how the crowd comes to arrest Jesus with swords and clubs; Judas' betraying kiss; Jesus' response of “Friend, do what you are here to do”; the crowd's reaction when Jesus said “I AM”; the meaning of “I AM”; the altercation between Peter and the high priest's servant; the healing of the servant's ear; Jesus' acceptance of His arrest so that the “Scriptures be fulfilled”; and the disciples' desertion
3. Meditate on Jesus' trial before the high priest. Consider the following: the false testimony against Jesus; Jesus' silence in the face of the accusations; Jesus' testimony of “From now on you will see the Son of Man seated at the right hand of Power and coming on the clouds of heaven”; the high priest's verdict; and the abuse Jesus receives at the hands of the Jews
4. Ponder Peter's denial of Jesus. Consider the following: the reasons for Peter's denial; Jesus' prediction and response; Peter's violent outburst; and Peter's remorse.
5. Think about Jesus' trial before Pilate. Consider the following: the Jews' accusations; Pilate's questions to Jesus; Jesus' silence in the face of His accusers; the dream of Pilate's wife; Jesus' words to Pilate about the kingdom in John's Gospel; the Jews' choice of Barabbas; Pilate's fear; Pilate's verdict of “not guilty”; how Pilate caved in to the Jews when they implied that if he were to let Jesus go, he would be betraying Caesar; the Jews' claim that they had no king but Caesar and their cries to crucify Jesus; and how Pilate washed his hands of the matter and declared himself innocent of Jesus' blood.
6. Reflect on Jesus' trial before Herod in Luke's Gospel. Consider the following: why Luke includes this scene; Jesus' silence; the mockery and abuse Jesus endured; and how Herod sent Jesus back to Pilate dressed in an elegant robe.
7. Ponder the manner in which Jesus was scourged. Roman soldiers lashed Him repeatedly with a whip that probably had at least two “tails” tipped with metal balls. The Jews limited their scourgings to thirty-nine lashes, but the Romans did not. For more detailed information about the scourging, see this website. Please be warned; it contains disturbing material.
8. Reflect on Jesus' extreme pain, and remember that He suffered that pain because of our sins.
9. Consider how strong Jesus' love was. He loved His tormentors even as they scourged Him. And He loves us even when we sin.
10. Is there any pain that Jesus cannot understand?
11. Remember that Jesus could have stopped the scourging, and the entire Passion, at any point. He was and is God. But He chose to suffer it for our sake, to save us, and bring us home to Heaven to be with Him forever. Ponder this amazing truth.
12. Place yourself in the sandals of those who witnessed the scourging. What did they see? How did they react?
Application Questions
1. How have you betrayed Jesus throughout your life? Have you repented of your sins and confessed them? Do you understand that Jesus forgives you and loves you even when you do betray Him?
2. How do you respond when you are falsely accused by someone?
3. In what ways have you, like Peter, denied Jesus? How did you feel afterward?
4. Have you ever been influenced to do something you knew was wrong? Have you ever followed the crowd instead of your conscience? Why did you do so? How did you feel afterward?
5. Do you truly realize, do you truly understand, what Jesus endured for you?
6. How should you respond to Jesus' self-giving love?
7. Do you realize that Jesus completely understands your pain? How might this realization change your relationship with Him and your view of the sufferings in your own life?
Prayer, Prayer, and More Prayer
Blessing and Adoration – We bow our heads in silent adoration before You, our suffering Jesus. We adore You and we bless You, for You suffered unspeakable pain and anguish for our sake. How can we ever truly grasp Your wondrous love for us, Lord?
Praise – Jesus, we praise You for Your great courage and love. You stood silently before Your accusers and allowed Yourself to be abused and scourged. You could have stopped it all at any moment, but You chose to continue out of love for us. May Your praises ring out in Heaven and earth, Lord Jesus!
Thanksgiving – Lord, how can we ever thank You enough? You were betrayed, denied, and abused by the ones You love. You suffered for us. You bore the pain and anguish of our sin. And You did it all willingly that we may be with You in Heaven forever. How can we ever thank You enough, Lord?
Intercession – Lord, we lift up to You all those in pain. Comfort them and strengthen them, Lord. We lift up those who even today do not recognize You as the divine Son. Touch their hearts that they may know You, Lord. We lift up those who are tempted to bow to the will of the crowd instead of following their consciences. Give them courage, Lord. We lift up those who are physically abused. Hold them closely in Your arms and protect them, Lord. We lift up their abusers. Change their hearts and ways, Lord.
Petition – Jesus, help us always to remember that no matter what we must suffer, You are always there beside us, and You understand fully what we are going through. Help us to turn to You for strength and courage and self-control. Forgive us our sins, Lord as we fall before You in sorrow and repentance.
Quotes from the Saints
“It should be known that Pilate administered the Roman law, which enacted that every one who was crucified should first be scourged. Jesus then is given up to the soldiers to be beaten, and they tore with whips that most holy body and capacious bosom of God. This was done that we might be delivered from those stripes of which it is said, Many stripes shall be to the wicked. ” - St. Jerome
“See the Lord is made ready for the scourge, see now it descends upon Him! That sacred skin is torn by the fury of the rods; the cruel might of repeated blows lacerates His shoulders. Ah me! God is stretched out before man, and He, in whom not one trace of sin can be discerned, suffers punishment as a malefactor.” - St. John Chrysostom
“When the Jews had cried out that they did not wish Jesus to be released on account of the passover, but Barabbas, Then Pilate therefore took Jesus, and scourged Him. Pilate seems to have done this for no reason but to satisfy the malice of the Jews with some punishment short of death. On which account he allowed his band to do what follows, or perhaps even commanded them.” - St. Augustine
Sunday, October 23, 2011
A Little Something Extra...Thirtieth Sunday in Ordinary Time
Affliction and Joy
In 1 Thessalonians 1:6, St. Paul tells his readers, “And you became imitators of us and of the Lord, receiving the word in great affliction, with joy from the Holy Spirit...”
Affliction and joy seem incompatible, don't they? Yet St. Paul deliberately links them together as part of the Christian experience of receiving the Word of God.
A brief word study will help us delve into depths of St. Paul's meaning.
The Greek word for “receiving” is dechomai. It means taking something to oneself, accepting it, and even embracing it. There is a highly personal aspect to this word, which in the Greek suggests a firm decision of the receiver's will to accept and retain the object presented. When people receive the Word, then, they make a deliberate decision to take that Word into themselves and to embrace it in the depths of their being.
The Greek for “word” here is logos. Remember that logos is often used to refer to Jesus Christ Himself, the Logos, or Word, of God and the Second Person of the Blessed Trinity. When St. Paul speaks of “the word” in this verse, he is certainly referring to the Gospel message that he preached to the Thessalonians, but he is also suggesting, at a deeper level, Jesus Christ, the Word of God.
St. Paul says that his readers have received the Word in great affliction but with joy from the Holy Spirit. The Greek word thlipsis can be translated as affliction, pressure, oppression, distress, or tribulation. Where does this affliction come from? Remember that the Thessalonians were experiencing persecution from the Jews. They were certainly being pressured to abandon their Christian faith and were oppressed socially, economically, and maybe even physically. Many Christians still face such afflictions today.
Affliction and tribulation, however, can never extinguish the joy that comes with truly receiving the Word of God. The Greek word for “joy” is chara, which can also denote gladness and delight. St. Paul reminds us that this joy comes from the Holy Spirit. It is beyond natural joy or joy in created things. It is a God-given joy, and therefore, it is stronger and more powerful than any affliction or tribulation that Christians might experience in the world.
Questions for Reflection:
* Think about the ways in which you are invited to receive the Word of God, both the Gospel message and Jesus Christ.
* How open is your heart and mind to the Word of God?
* Have you embraced the Word through a deliberate decision of the will?
* How has this made a difference in your life?
* How might you more fruitfully receive the Word?
* Think about the mix of affliction and joy in your own life as a Christian.
* Have you experienced oppression and tribulation because you are a Christian?
* How did you handle those situations?
* In what ways do you experience God-given joy as a Christian?
In 1 Thessalonians 1:6, St. Paul tells his readers, “And you became imitators of us and of the Lord, receiving the word in great affliction, with joy from the Holy Spirit...”
Affliction and joy seem incompatible, don't they? Yet St. Paul deliberately links them together as part of the Christian experience of receiving the Word of God.
A brief word study will help us delve into depths of St. Paul's meaning.
The Greek word for “receiving” is dechomai. It means taking something to oneself, accepting it, and even embracing it. There is a highly personal aspect to this word, which in the Greek suggests a firm decision of the receiver's will to accept and retain the object presented. When people receive the Word, then, they make a deliberate decision to take that Word into themselves and to embrace it in the depths of their being.
The Greek for “word” here is logos. Remember that logos is often used to refer to Jesus Christ Himself, the Logos, or Word, of God and the Second Person of the Blessed Trinity. When St. Paul speaks of “the word” in this verse, he is certainly referring to the Gospel message that he preached to the Thessalonians, but he is also suggesting, at a deeper level, Jesus Christ, the Word of God.
St. Paul says that his readers have received the Word in great affliction but with joy from the Holy Spirit. The Greek word thlipsis can be translated as affliction, pressure, oppression, distress, or tribulation. Where does this affliction come from? Remember that the Thessalonians were experiencing persecution from the Jews. They were certainly being pressured to abandon their Christian faith and were oppressed socially, economically, and maybe even physically. Many Christians still face such afflictions today.
Affliction and tribulation, however, can never extinguish the joy that comes with truly receiving the Word of God. The Greek word for “joy” is chara, which can also denote gladness and delight. St. Paul reminds us that this joy comes from the Holy Spirit. It is beyond natural joy or joy in created things. It is a God-given joy, and therefore, it is stronger and more powerful than any affliction or tribulation that Christians might experience in the world.
Questions for Reflection:
* Think about the ways in which you are invited to receive the Word of God, both the Gospel message and Jesus Christ.
* How open is your heart and mind to the Word of God?
* Have you embraced the Word through a deliberate decision of the will?
* How has this made a difference in your life?
* How might you more fruitfully receive the Word?
* Think about the mix of affliction and joy in your own life as a Christian.
* Have you experienced oppression and tribulation because you are a Christian?
* How did you handle those situations?
* In what ways do you experience God-given joy as a Christian?
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)