There is a great deal of art depicting Christ during the time of his passion and crucifixion. Many of these works of art are extremely clean and sterile. The brutality of the scourging and crucifixion are typically not on full display. The one rare exception was the movie produced by Mel Gibson a number of years ago. The graphic detail in that movie certainly could make one's stomach churn in horror to think of what was done to our Lord and Savior.
This weekend (Palm Sunday) we will hear the passion narrative as provided by the Gospel of Luke. The triumphal entry into Jerusalem will quickly give way to the chants, "CRUCIFY HIM!" The weight of our sins lead to Calvary. "My people what have I done to you? How have I offended you? Answer me."
The cross of Christ can give each of us hope. It is not only the instrument of our redemption; it is a solemn reminder that Jesus bears our burdens with us. He understands suffering in a very profound way. He understands the pain of betrayal by someone close to him. He understands being unjustly criticized. He has experienced hatred, physical suffering, and isolation. He understands all of our concerns when we bring them to Him.
As my ministry has grown in regard to leading retreats and presenting parish missions, I have become keenly aware of the level of suffering among God's people. There is a lot of hurt. Sickness is present. There are addictions to drugs, alcohol, pornography, and an array of other things. The number of broken relationships is simply heartbreaking. The fear of poverty due to unemployment and underemployment is real for many families. Grief over the death of a loved one can seem overwhelming at times.
Life is not always easy, but there is constant hope in Jesus Christ. As we listen to the Passion Narrative this weekend let us unite ourselves more fully to Jesus Christ. The crosses you are carrying in your own life--entrust them to the Lord.
"Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest." (Matthew 11:28)
This weekend (Palm Sunday) we will hear the passion narrative as provided by the Gospel of Luke. The triumphal entry into Jerusalem will quickly give way to the chants, "CRUCIFY HIM!" The weight of our sins lead to Calvary. "My people what have I done to you? How have I offended you? Answer me."
The cross of Christ can give each of us hope. It is not only the instrument of our redemption; it is a solemn reminder that Jesus bears our burdens with us. He understands suffering in a very profound way. He understands the pain of betrayal by someone close to him. He understands being unjustly criticized. He has experienced hatred, physical suffering, and isolation. He understands all of our concerns when we bring them to Him.
As my ministry has grown in regard to leading retreats and presenting parish missions, I have become keenly aware of the level of suffering among God's people. There is a lot of hurt. Sickness is present. There are addictions to drugs, alcohol, pornography, and an array of other things. The number of broken relationships is simply heartbreaking. The fear of poverty due to unemployment and underemployment is real for many families. Grief over the death of a loved one can seem overwhelming at times.
Life is not always easy, but there is constant hope in Jesus Christ. As we listen to the Passion Narrative this weekend let us unite ourselves more fully to Jesus Christ. The crosses you are carrying in your own life--entrust them to the Lord.
"Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest." (Matthew 11:28)
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