Today is April 14, Monday of Holy Week.
In the Gospel, we hear, “Six days before Passover Jesus came to Bethany, where Lazarus was, whom Jesus had raised from the dead. They gave a dinner for him there, and Martha served, while Lazarus was one of those reclining at table with him” (Jn 12:1-2).
We are in the final days before we commemorate the Passion and death of Jesus Christ. The drama is about to unfold. Before Jesus heads to Jerusalem, he does something touching and perhaps surprising: he goes to rest with his friends. Before the chaos of the crowds and the shouting of enemies begins, Jesus reclines at table for a meal with people who love him.
This really shows the true humanity of Jesus: he finds comfort and support in being with his friends. It does not take the cross away. It does not change his mission. Rather, it is part of the preparation. It is the context for the beautiful and silent movement of Mary Magdalene, bathing the feet of Jesus in perfume. This is the parting of friends.
A call for community
Our love for Jesus does not separate us from each other. It may separate us from those who do not like what Jesus is doing, just as the chief priests want to kill Lazarus. But it also brings us into a new community of friends. This is not limited to those we see around us. It includes the saints who are already in heaven.
We do not carry our crosses alone this week but with one another. We are part of the body of Christ and are called to the communion of the saints. We should pray for each other during this week, as we hope others pray for us. When we recline at the eternal banquet, we will be surrounded by friends who supported us and helped us get there, whether we knew it or not.
Let us pray,
Grant, we pray, almighty God, that, though in our weakness we fail, we may be revived through the Passion of your Only Begotten Son. Who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God, for ever and ever. Amen.
