PRAYER / Lenten Reflection 2005 Passion Sunday, March 20, 2005

Today we hear Matthew’s account of Jesus’ passion and death. Passion means not only suffering. We might reflect today on all of Jesus’ passion, that deep and long-lasting emotion which fueled his mission and energized his ministry to outcasts, women, the unclean. His passion too was to keep his ear open to God (Isaiah today: 50:4-7), a focused desire to be in union with God and God’s will that all may be one, no matter the consequences. Today we hear the consequences.

A favorite devotion is the seven last words of Jesus. Matthew records only one cry: "My God, my God, why have you abandoned me?" Jesus really has lost the sense of God’s presence and care. He is not merely piously quoting a psalm (22). Who is pious when in excruciating pain? There are many other verses from this psalm that express hope. He chooses this verse to voice his ultimate self-emptying.

When have you felt betrayed, abandoned--by friends, by God? Share those experiences with Jesus on the cross and hear his cry. How will you comfort him?

Empty us, Jesus, of our self-absorption and self-indulgence. May the fire of your energizing passion spark our deeper commitment to your concerns for your Body suffering in today’s world.

Contributor: Sister Rea McDonnell

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