Friday of the Passion of the Lord (Good Friday)
On Good Friday, we remember the ultimate sacrifice that Jesus made for us on the cross. The Gospel of John's account of the passion and death of Jesus is a powerful and moving narrative that invites us to reflect on the meaning of the cross and the depth of God's love for us. In John 18:1-19:42, we read of Jesus' arrest, trial, and crucifixion. As a Catholic theologian, I would like to reflect on some of the themes that emerge from this text and what they mean for us as we contemplate the mystery of the cross.
The obedience of Christ: Throughout the passion narrative, Jesus demonstrates a deep and abiding obedience to the will of the Father, even in the face of great suffering and injustice. He willingly submits to arrest, trial, and crucifixion, out of love for us and obedience to the Father. As we contemplate the mystery of the cross, we are called to imitate Jesus' example of obedience, and to trust in God's plan for our lives, even when it is difficult or painful.
The power of forgiveness: Despite the injustice and cruelty that he experiences, Jesus responds with a profound and radical forgiveness, praying for his enemies and entrusting himself to the Father. His example challenges us to rethink our own attitudes toward forgiveness and to embrace a more expansive and transformative understanding of this central Christian virtue. As we contemplate the mystery of the cross, we are called to open our hearts to the power of forgiveness and to seek reconciliation with those who have hurt us.
The meaning of suffering: The cross is a powerful symbol of suffering and pain, and yet it is also the means by which we are saved and redeemed. Through his suffering and death, Jesus shows us that God is present in the midst of our own suffering, and that our pain can be transformed into a source of grace and spiritual growth. As we contemplate the mystery of the cross, we are called to embrace our own suffering with courage and faith, trusting that God is with us in the midst of our struggles and offering us the grace to persevere.
The promise of resurrection: Finally, the passion narrative reminds us that the cross is not the end of the story, but rather the prelude to the glorious resurrection. Through his death and resurrection, Jesus offers us the promise of new life and the hope of eternal salvation. As we contemplate the mystery of the cross, we are called to embrace this promise of resurrection and to live with the confidence and joy that comes from knowing that death has been conquered and that we are called to share in the eternal life of God.
As we enter into the solemnity of Good Friday, may we be inspired by the depth of God's love for us and the sacrifice that Jesus made on the cross. May we be transformed by the power of forgiveness and the promise of resurrection, and may we find the strength and courage to follow Jesus, even in the midst of suffering and adversity.
