Friday of the Fifth Week in Lent
(Jeremiah 20:10-13; John 10:31-42)
Among the gestures made in church we bow to the
altar. Some perhaps think that they are
reverencing the tabernacle which is often placed behind the altar. But the altar itself is a symbol of
Jesus. We bow to him. The gospel today indicates the association.
The setting is the Jewish feast of the dedication of the
temple altar. Jesus has come to
Jerusalem to celebrate. In the ensuing discussion
with the Jews, he says that God has consecrated him as well. In fact, he will replace the temple altar as
the locus of true worship. His crucifixion
becomes the only perfect sacrifice which redeems humanity. It atones not just of individual sins but the
multiplication of guilt through the ages.
The Jews understandably have difficulty accepting Jesus’
claims. We, however, have the benefit of
the testimony of his resurrection from his apostles and from saints throughout
the ages who have dedicated their lives to him.
Following in their way we find that in joining him we do not give up our
freedom but are freed from the attractions that undermine our desire for
eternal life.
