PALM SUNDAY OF THE LORD’S PASSION B
GAZE AT JESUS CRUCIFIED
MK 14: 1 – 15:47
MESSAGE
Lord Jesus, this week, let me gaze upon you on the Cross. May I be filled with remorse and shame for my sins that led you to walk the path of death to save me. Words fall short in expressing my immense gratitude for such great love. Lord, as I meditate on your suffering and death this week, may it also remind me of those who suffer and endure pain around me. Like you, may I reach out to these individuals who experience physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual turmoil, albeit in my own humble way.
Your Cross is the healing my life needs, and the healing the world needs. From the Cross, you visit each one of us to bestow the gifts of forgiveness, peace, and love. Teach me how to unite my daily struggles with your Cross, to recognize how in my suffering, I am called by you to stand in solidarity with others in my life. Did not your apostle say that when one member of the body suffers, all other members suffer with it? I understand, Lord, that you died sinless, while my own pains are well-deserved due to my selfishness and sinfulness. And yet, as I look upon you on the Cross, I do not hear any censure, blame, or judgment. I can only feel your love flowing from that Cross and into my heart.
REFLECTION
Take time to gaze and pray before a crucifix this Holy Week, whether at home or in a church. Unite your own daily burdens and difficulties with the suffering of Jesus. Ask the Lord for compassion and love for others, rather than boredom, spite, or hatred. Lay everything down at the foot of the Cross and find healing in His love. Participate in your parish’s celebrations, confess, and remain at the foot of Christ’s victorious Cross.
(Inspired by the thoughts of the mystic, Julian of Norwich…)
