FRIDAY OF HOLY WEEK

Jesus, Condemned

Then the high priest stood up before them and asked Jesus, “Have you no answer? What is it that they testify against you?” But he was silent and did not answer. Again the high priest asked him, “Are you the Messiah, the Son of the Blessed One?” Jesus said, “I am; and
‘you will see the Son of Man
seated at the right hand of the Power,’
and ‘coming with the clouds of heaven.’”
Then the high priest tore his clothes and said, “Why do we still need witnesses? You have heard his blasphemy! What is your decision?” All of them condemned him as deserving death. Mark 14: 60-64

Close your eyes. Picture the scene in the high priest’s chamber. See the high priest and the council; imagine their robes of authority; look deeply into their faces. Feel the emotion in the room.

Open your eyes. See Jesus. Imagine his demeanor; look into his eyes. Hear his silence. Listen with all your being—your ears, your eyes, your mind, and your heart. The high priest asks his question, your question. Who are you Jesus? What shall we call you?
And Jesus answers!

Stay in the silence of this place. Look anew at Jesus.
Close your eyes and hear the responses of those around you. Hear with compassion. Hear your own questions. Wonder how you too think Jesus deserves to die.

How do we daily crucify our Lord?

Forgive us O Lord ….Amen