MONDAY OF HOLY WEEK

Rabbi Jesus

and the Elements

"Barren Tree Blown" Highlands, Scotland, December, 2006

In the morning as they passed by, they saw the fig tree withered away to its roots. Then Peter remembered and said to him, “Rabbi, look! The fig tree that you cursed has withered.” Jesus answered them, “Have faith in God. Truly I tell you, if you say to this mountain, ‘Be taken up and thrown into the sea,’ and if you do not doubt in your heart, but believe that what you say will come to pass, it will be done for you. So I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours. “Whenever you stand praying, forgive, if you have anything against anyone; so that your Father in heaven may also forgive you your trespasses.” Mark 11: 20-25

It is a day of authoritarian statements and action by Rabbi Jesus, this Monday, Holy Week. The fig tree without fruit, the moneychangers and sellers in the temple, both heard the wrath of the rabbi from Galilee. Prayer, faith in God, and forgiveness, bring power even over the elements. The crowds are spell bound, but the authorities seek a way to kill him.

What is Jesus saying to you today? How do you hear his truth?

Lord Jesus, help me have a forgiving heart; forgive my sins; protect me from your wrath; give me the faith that heals. Amen.