Today we start Holy Week – a time in our calendar where we experience great joy and yet know of great sorrow to come followed by the most glorious day for us. Our readings throughout the week allow us to journey with Jesus as He prepares for the greatest sacrifice ever. The gospel is one that has always interested me. Being rather frugal, I could on the surface see Judas’ point about doing good for so many. As a young child that made sense but I did not understand Judas’ real motivation about money and the importance of appreciating that value is relative. Then as I was older I became to understand how valuable even moments with those we love are. As I reflect on this and write these words, I must face that my actions are not always in line with this value. While I desire to serve others and this is a good thing and expected if I am to follow in the path of Jesus, I must keep it all in perspective. As Jesus points out to his followers,
Jesus was foretelling of His death later this week and His return to His Father. The one thing that we do know is that although Jesus is not physically here with us, His presence is nonetheless real. I do know that I need that presence in my life. Even when I drift in my actions and am not totally true to what I know is the path to follow, I can feel that presence. What I need to remember over and over is that the promise is God with Us (Emmanual) not that the way will be easy, just that I will not be alone. |