Pierced for our transgressions

"…he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace, was upon him, and by his wounds we are healed."                                                                                                                                                                                                                                               Isaiah 53:5

Here we are heading into the second week of Lent. Soon we will be hearing, once again, about the events in the final week of Jesus' life. Soon we will, again, follow Christ to the cross. Soon, if we let it, the impact of this primary reality of the Christian life will lead us to our own crosses and - ultimately - to redemption.

The Gospel will tell the story of the Transfiguration, the temptations, the terror, the trial, the betrayal, the torture, and the death of Jesus. In those pages, we will have the opportunity to walk the road to Jerusalem again, entering victoriously into the Holy City with Jesus, only to stand by helplessly as he is nailed to a tree.

All of this lies ahead, Holy Week beckons us. Until then, make an extra effort to think and feel each day, really feel the day as a gift from God. Read Holy Scripture, a pamphlet, a reflection, the entire Bible! The call of Lent is to read the Word of God. Listen to the Sunday Gospel and find yourself in the story. Which one are you?

Reflect on your heart and spirit and the pain your mind tries to mediate. How have you been tempted? How have you been betrayed by friends, loved ones? Have you forgiven them? How are you living now in response to the ministry (life) you have been given by God? Where is God, where is Jesus, included in the regular work, rest, and play of your day?

With Jesus' Crucifixion fast approaching, collect your things, THOSE things, and allow Jesus to accept them, nailed to Cross along with Him. Jesus is taking that deliberate and difficult walk to Jerusalem and to Golgotha, specifically to take your burdens on himself. Will you walk with him? Will you give Him that which He commanded you to give? Your pain? Your fears? Your regrets? Your secrets?

"…he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace, was upon him, and by his wounds we are healed."                                                                                                                                                                                                                                             Isaiah 53:5

Giving as commanded,
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Fr. Bill+