Tuesday of Holy Week
One of the most incredible feelings is listening to the Agnus Dei, or Lamb of God, being sung at Saint Michael’s Chapel: the sweet, melodious strums of the guitar accompanied by the angelic voices of the choir bring tears to my eyes every time. I would get so excited for this moment when I was a student attending Sunday Mass. Friends would look at me and smile, often saying “here comes Maddie’s favorite part.” The prayerful repetition of “Lamb of God, who takes away the sins of the world, have mercy on us” invites me to recognize Jesus and all He has done for me. He takes away my sins – and all of the sins of this world – and offers abundant mercy and grace. I can take that moment to truly connect with Jesus. While at Mass, I often struggled to stay entirely focused. I loved being there but had a hard time with being present. My mind was always going, going, going. However, during the Agnus Dei, I could always feel God with His church in that moment. I felt His presence and His protection.
In the verse before Today’s Gospel reading, it is written: “Hail to you, our King, obedient to the Father; you were led to your crucifixion like a gentle lamb to the slaughter.” Jesus Christ is the Lamb of God, born without sin. He professes boldly to His Apostles His coming death and resurrection. He does not shy away. Instead, He looks at Judas, hands him the dipped morsel, and bids him, “What you are going to do, do quickly” (John 13:27). He knows that Judas will betray Him and that Peter will deny Him. However, this awareness does not stop Jesus Christ. It shows His mercy all the more, as He does not try and prevent Judas or distance Himself from Peter. Peter becomes the rock upon which the Church is built; He does amazing things because the Lamb of God was killed. Jesus saw their sins and still chose to die. He sees mine, yours, all of ours, and still gives up His life.
At the end of the Agnus Dei, “grant us peace” is professed. As we acknowledge our sinfulness we must also recognize that healing can only come from God. Jesus Christ, who loves us so deeply, will guide us, protect us, give us strength, and heal our minds, hearts, bodies, and spirits. He will grant us the peace and mercy we ask for because He is always good. Regardless of our fear, doubt, and sin, we are forgiven and saved.
Lamb of God, who takes away the sins of the world, have mercy on us.
Lamb of God, who takes away the sins of the world, have mercy on us.
Lamb of God, who takes away the sins of the world, grant us peace.
Maddie Newman, ’20
Psalm 71:1-4a, 5ab-6ab, 15, 17
Gospel: John 13:21-33, 36-38
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