Wednesday of Holy Week

Reflection

We are confronted today with three very different texts. In the first, the prophet tells of a Servant who is not afraid of the beatings and insults of his tormentors: “I have set my face like flint, knowing that I will not be put to shame.” In a word, he is “stone-faced” in the face of adversity. This man has decided not to bow to the influence or disrespect of others, because “He who is near upholds my right.” This is no small comfort. “Be strong!” the prophet seems to say. “You’ve got this!”

But in the second text, the Psalmist seems less sure of himself—a little more vulnerable. “For your sake I bear insult, and shame covers my face...Insult has broken my heart, and I am weak.” This is a person who is NOT made of stone—shame doesn’t bounce right off. “Don’t let them keep at it!” he seems to say. “I’m not made of Teflon.” If you’re like me, you can easily identify. I know that I should get over this insult or that snide remark, but some how it’s not that easy.

And in the Gospel we see Jesus preparing for a final dinner with His closest companions, one of whom has already stabbed Him in the back. The rest of them will abandon Him when He needs them most. Some friends. Some “followers.” And yet He doesn’t cancel the dinner. He doesn’t tell them to take a hike. Not even Judas. He sits down to eat with them—all of them. In the end, He is neither “stone-faced” nor broken. Rather, His face is one of continuing love. He knows who He is and whose He is and so He can enjoy the company of His friends, despite the gathering dark clouds on the horizon. This is what it looks like to live your life possessed by love. 

Prayer

God of persistent love, I have no stone face. Show me where I can let Your love flow more consistently through me and through my actions. Let my face speak joy and love to those around me.

Robert Brenneman, Associate Professor of Sociology

Scripture

First Reading: Isaiah 50:4-9a
Psalm 69:8-10, 21-22, 31, 33-34
Gospel: Matthew 26:14-25

Daily Scripture readings can be found online at the USCCB website