Tuesday of Holy
Week
(Isaiah 49:1-6; John 13:21-33.36-38)
The mental anguish of Jesus does not receive sufficient attention
in the popular mind. Granted that his
physical pain was intense and prolonged, it might have been more easily borne with
full support of his disciples. However, his
suffering was multiplied by the abandonment of two trusted disciples as well as
the mocking of his captors. Today’s
gospel indicates that Jesus even foreknew his disciple’s sins which likely increased
his misery.
It is important not to equate Judas’ and Peter’s infidelities. Judas’ betrayal was eminently worse than Peter’s
denial. Judas made a pact with the devil
by handing his teacher over to Jesus’ enemies with deliberation. Peter’s offense was committed out of fear for
his own welfare. His fright does not
excuse him from sin, but it does diminish his guilt.
We hope never to intensify Jesus’ pain with our own transgressions. But because we still are not completely
faithful, we want to participate in the liturgies of Holy Week with all
devotion. They will cleanse us of our sins
and enable us to not offend again.
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