Tuesday of Holy Week

Reflection

As we move further into Holy Week with the Lenten season nearing an end, we encounter through sacred scripture the tremendous drama and redemption found in the passion, death, and resurrection of our Savior, Jesus Christ.

In the Old Testament reading from Isaiah 49, we learn about the Servant of the Lord who has been called from the womb like a polished arrow in his quiver to bring light to the nations and salvation to the world. This Servant will restore and renew Israel and ultimately reaches fulfillment in Jesus. Our responsorial psalm amplifies this message, and each of us has received our own unique calling to share the Good News in our daily journeys, relation-ships, and responsibilities.

In the Gospel passage from John, we ponder the betrayals and disappointments of some of those closest to Jesus, including Judas Iscariot and Simon Peter. In true humility, Jesus provides the ultimate model of perseverance and trust in facing extraordinary obstacles and challenges while remaining focused on the will of God. And Peter later offers the wonderful example of humbly seeking reconciliation after the inevitable falls that we all confront.

Despite the darkness felt in many places across the globe today, each of us has the chance to bring God’s light and grace into our own personal situations. Although we too may stumble sometimes in our steps, through our Lenten practices, may we be heartened to discern the will of God and persevere in our own vocations..

Prayer

Dear Lord, through your sacrifice and obedience to God’s will, you lived your vocation to the fullest. May we learn from your example and be transformed by your atonement in our Holy Week journey with you. Saint Peter, pray for us!

George Ashline
Professor of Mathematics

Scripture

First Reading: Isaiah 49:1-6
Psalm 71:1-6ab, 15, 17
Gospel: John 13:21-33, 36-38

Daily Scripture readings can be found online at the USCCB website