“Christ Jesus, though he was in the form of God . . .emptied himself taking the form of a slave . . . he humbled himself, becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross. ” (Philippians).
On a number of occasions in the retelling of the Passion according to Matthew, Jesus remains silent and gives no response to those questioning and condemning him.
Jesus didn’t seek to defend or justify himself. Perhaps he knew it would be no use, after all he had attempted to share God’s message throughout the past three years or so years of his life. Or perhaps during his prayer in the garden and his acceptance of God’s will he had come to a deep level of peace and openness. He didn’t need to defend himself – he knew he was about his Father’s work; he knew and believed he was loved despite feeling abandoned by his disciples and God (see Psalm 22). He knew and believed who he was – beloved Son of God. He truly humbled himself. In the midst of terror, judgment, condemnation, abandonment he remained true to his call; true to his being. In the midst of the chaos around him he was at peace deep within.
In Your Life . . .
As you enter into this Holy Week after these 40 days of your Lenten journey hopefully you can find some time to be in the silence with your Savior and Redeemer. There is no need for words. Bring who you are to God – who knows you and loves more then you can imagine.
There is no need to judge yourself for what you haven’t “accomplished” or what resolves you didn’t keep during Lent. There is no need to make excuses, rationalize or defend yourself. You are loved.
And to accept love there is a need for humility – an emptying of who you are not and an acceptance of the truth of who you are: A beloved child of God. Our Father is there to lift you up every time you fall, lose your way, get angry, become afraid . . . Remain in the silence with your God for awhile.
Scripture Reflection . . .
Palm Sunday
First Reading: Isaiah 50:4-7
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 22 “My God, My God, why have you abandoned me?”
Second Reading:Philippians 2:6-11
Gospel: Matthew 26:14-27:66
Blessings on your Holy Week