Almost There

By Deacon Bill Richer

Our Lenten Journey is almost complete. Today, we enter into the holiest week of the Year as we recall the “winning of our salvation” through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ.

Today, on Palm Sunday, there is a striking difference in our Mass, where we hear two gospel accounts. The same crowd who shout “Hosanna” will soon be shouting “Crucify Him”.

The same Peter who promises he will not abandon Jesus will soon deny Him three times. The disciples who saw all Christ did and heard all that he taught will abandon Him and scatter in fear.

Jesus dies for them and us anyway!

Imagine being Jesus as all this is happening. What kind of love would it take to sacrifice your life for these people?

For us today, we hold grudges so easily and get mad if we hear someone gossiping behind our backs. We get angry if we don’t get a text back right away. But it would be hard to love people who have abandoned and totally betrayed us. This is the love Christ has for us, even in our sinfulness.

What do we do to deserve such a Savior? We sin, and God loved us beyond that. This week, reflect on how far and to what lengths Jesus goes for us after being handed over to die.

Christ loves us!