Wednesday of the Second Week

Reflection

The Scripture for today challenges us to be disciples, being the light we see in Jesus. As they were going up to Jerusalem, Jesus told His disciples, “’Behold…the Son of Man will be handed over to the chief priests and the scribes, and they will condemn him to death, and hand him over to the Gentiles to be mocked and scourged and crucified, and he will be raised on the third day.’” After this third prediction of the passion, He shares the cup with His disciples, a cup which is a symbol of suffering. It is in this sharing that His care for others is made manifest: in His own time of darkness, a time when he could have withdrawn and shown fear, Jesus demonstrates a willingness to remain in community, despite the community’s struggle for prominence of who sits where. So, by taking right actions in our own lives and giving trust to the preparations of the Father, we too can experience the glory of salvation.

The first reading from Jeremiah calls upon the fortitude in all of us, an allegory, asking us not to plot revenge or misdeeds, but to “turn your wrath away.” We as Christians are renewed this Lenten season, I think these readings are a reminder to be empowered in our abilities, to recognize our intentions, be renewed by the Holy Spirit and remember that we are forever in God’s light.

Prayer

Dear Lord, as we share in Your Chalice, let us be filled with Your light. May it dispel our darkness and awake us to Holiness, for no hardship can fade the kindness that is the light of life.

Allison Croce, ’20

Scripture

First Reading: Jeremiah 18:18-20
Psalm 31:5-6, 14-16
Gospel: Matthew 20:17-28

Daily Scripture readings can be found online at the USCCB website