JESUS MAKES IT CLEAR

 

JESUS MAKES IT CLEAR

A number of times, Jesus made it clear that He is going to suffer and die at the hands of men. It should not have been a surprise to them that Jesus got arrested and ultimately put to death. One of the enduring questions of theology has to do with His own awareness of this fact. At what time in His life does Jesus gain awareness that His mission is to suffer and die for our sins?

I believe that this is a piece of knowledge that begins to crystallize in His own mind after He begins His ministry. For me, it makes little sense for Him to carry such knowledge before He begins His ministry. On the other hand, it makes a lot of sense that, as soon as He embarks on His ministry, future steps take on greater clarity in His mind. It is impossible to pinpoint an exact time, but the fact that Jesus mentions it often clearly indicates that He is sure that His death is part of God’s plan for His life.

A number of the saints received clear knowledge of the manner and timing of their death—not too many of them, but some seem to have known how and when they will die. It might be difficult for us to process such facts and, unless we have saintly-like commitment, it may even distract us from doing what God wants us to do. It is much better to leave such knowledge in the hands of God and trust that He knows what He is doing. Fr. Steve Tynan, MGL

---------- REFLECTION QUESTION ----------

What do you think it would be like to know the time and manner of your death?

Lord Jesus, help me to focus on being faithful to Your will for my life. I trust that You will give me all the knowledge I need to perform it well. Amen.

Today, I pray for: __________________________