Passion Sunday
The Lord GOD has given me a well-trained tongue, that I might know how to speak to the weary a word that will rouse them.
Weary—that is how I feel: after a year of separation and isolation from others, unable to gather with my community, friends, family, and coworkers; being unable to serve others in ministry; living in fear of a virus I cannot see, but that I know is all too real; having so many friends and family seriously ill, and others dead; it is easy to become discouraged.
This passage of Isaiah was written after nearly 50 years of the Jewish people’s servitude while exiled in Babylon; they were weary and discouraged, too. Yet, the writer was inspired to foretell the coming of a Servant to whom God speaks, and who will speak to us words of encouragement; a Servant who will steadfastly do the will of the God, no matter how horribly He is abused, humiliated, or even put to death. We Christians interpret the Servant Songs of Isaiah as prophecy about the passion of Jesus.
I find comfort in both Jesus’ words and his example of steadfastly doing what needs to be done—what God the Father needs him to do. I, too, must continue to do what I know is necessary during this pandemic. Perhaps, by my example, I might “rouse” others who are weary, too.
Lord, open my ears to your voice; open my mind to the counsel of our wise medical and civic leaders; and open my heart to the hope that we may come safely through this difficult time, for you are our help. Amen.
Brother Frank Hagerty, S.S.E. ‘73, Spiritual Director and Prison Minister
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