The Passion Narrative acquires a totally new meaning within the context of Holy Week.
We feel shame and regret for all the sufferings Jesus had to endure to save us; we grieve over our broken promises, and we wonder what we should do to show him our sincere gratitude.
These feelings are correct, yet we should have them within the context of his resurrection and glorification as Head of the Mystical Body at the right hand of the Father.
Consequently, we must remember that all that we feel reading the Passion Narrative should be relived for our edification and encouragement as members of the Mystical Body.
Therefore, the best display of gratitude for all that Jesus endured during his passion, should lead us to alleviate the sufferings of the hurting members of his Body.
This is precisely what we resolve to do relying on grace and in view of the eternal reward awaiting us if we focus on attending to the needs of our brothers and sisters.
For this reason, if we can set aside an adequate amount of time, we should read the Passion Narrative again according to Mark.
In the process as we recall our past up to this day, we can identify with Jesus’ supporters, his disciples, the crowds enthused by his miracles, bystanders and, why not (?), at times also with his enemies…
We should muster enough courage to own up to our confusion, hesitations, fears, avoidances, betrayals, but also our spurts of enthusiasm, and timid hopes. Jesus, the Head of the Mystical Body is not only seated in glory at the right hand of the Father, but also with us as we relive our role as sinners surrounded by a throng of sinful brothers and sisters.
In Christ Jesus we are certain that the Father will bring to a joyful completion his salvific work which also includes the injustices we have endured and those who inflicted on others; the pain we felt and the one we caused others; successful plans and the failed ones; our imperfect love and all we did for him although with lukewarm hearts.
Hence, we resolve to keep our eyes wide open and the ears of our heart totally receptive to see and to feel, better and better, the pains the Body of Christ is suffering due also to our negligence and mistakes.
If we show good will, the Lord will indicate what he aspects of us in concrete and feasible ways to alleviate some that pain.
If this is the attitude with which we promise to attend to the needs of our brothers and sisters and to share in their sufferings, our preparation for Easter will be fitting and we will live with unwavering hope to share in the endless glory of the Risen Lord.
