Scripture for Mass
Isaiah 50:4-7
Psalm 22(21):8-9. 17-18a. 19-20. 23-24. Response: 2a
Philippians 2:6-11
Matthew 26:14-27:66
Our world and planet are full of suffering. Anguish and affliction have deep and extensive roots, which are enmeshed in both obvious and subtle ways in all of life. Consequently, despite our best efforts to understand and eliminate suffering, it remains beyond our grasp.
Throughout his public ministry, Jesus was deeply committed to the removal of suffering and to the nurturing of life and love. In pardoning sinners, he gave them peace of mind. Through his healings, he restored the sick to their family and community. By raising the dead, he relieved the heartbreak of family and friends. Besides, he gave the Good Samaritan as a role model to his followers while advocating repeatedly for a just and caring society.
However, Jesus realised that the pursuit of his dream would result in conflict and suffering: “Do not suppose that I have come to bring peace to the earth. No, I did not come to bring peace but a sword” (Mt. 10:34). He knew that ‘the privileged few’ resisted his message tooth and nail, and that if he were to remain faithful to his mission, he would inevitably suffer outright rejection.
Besides, Jesus knew that suffering and growth, death and life are woven intricately together into the fabric of the universe: “Unless a grain of wheat falls into the ground and dies, it remains but a single grain. But if it dies, it yields a rich harvest” (Jn. 12:24).
Yes, anguish, suffering and death are real, but the God of life will always prevail.
Merciful God, we thank you for revealing the depth of your love for our world through Jesus’s fidelity to the mission you had entrusted to him.
Help us to accept that Jesus gave up his life for us sinners.
May our belief in such unconditional love fill us with deep gratitude and peace.
Grant us the courage to accept whatever suffering comes our way as we strive to follow Jesus’s example in our daily living.
Grant us compassionate hearts and willing hands to support others in carrying their crosses.
We ask this through Jesus, our Guide and Companion on the road of life.
Amen.
Fr. Tim Mulroy
