he prophesied that Jesus was going to die for the nation, and not only for the nation, but also to gather into one the dispersed children of God. John 11:51-52
We are about to enter into Holy Week and the readings reflect the imminence of Jesus’ death. His death as described by the Passion was a horrific one and it is quite easy to get caught up in the gory details and stay in sorrow. But the one main message remains, and that is love.
Out of love, Christ will die to save all of us. Out of love, God doesn’t give up on us and instead, through the sacrifice of His Son, He will gather into one all His scattered children. It is a purifying love, full of sanctifying grace, and it perseveres to the end. It is a love that refuses to die as seen by Christ’s resurrection and ascension. The best thing about the love of God is Jesus leaves us a Paraclete, the Holy Spirit, who is with us wherever we go.
His is a presence who brings us supernatural grace such as wisdom, encouragement, comfort and helps us maintain a close and vibrant relationship with Jesus. If there is one thing we can learn from this heinous decision of the Pharisees, it is that murder is so easy to commit when we allow our pride to judge others meanly and when we reject the Father’s loving promise - the promise of covenantal peace and a chance to live forever.
As Ezekiel 18:31 exhorts: Cast away from you all the crimes you have committed, says the LORD, and make for yourselves a new heart and a new spirit.
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