For malayalam "anudina thiruvachana dhyaanangal" please see the blog down left side.....

Friday 24 October 2014

Holy Rosary Month - Day 24: Sorrowful Mysteries 5

Holy Rosary Month - Day 24: Sorrowful Mysteries 5

The crucifixion and death of Jesus on the cross: In the fifth sorrowful mystery we meditate on the crucifixion and death of Jesus on the cross. After a long period of preparation, both physically and mentally crushed, it is the time for the sacrifice of the Lamb of God; the sacrifice for the whole world. His birth announcement itself had given the message that he would be the redeemer for all; “Do not be afraid; for behold, I proclaim to you good news of great joy that will be for all the people.” (Lk 2:10) On his way to the fulfillment of the will of the father, (it is very useful here to remember the significance of the Lucan theology of the way found in cc 9:51-19:27) everyone was included unto him even the marginalized; Samaritans, publicans, the poor, tax collectors, sinners, and widows and so on. Therefore, Jesus’ sacrifice on the mount Calvary is for each and every one of us. He has promised us saying, “When I am lifted up from the earth, I will draw everyone to me.” (Jn 12:32) Cross and crucifixion were very familiar to the people of those days; a symbol of cursed life and punishment. By giving this punishment to Jesus, the Son of God, they proved themselves how much they hated Jesus. But the teacher who taught to love even one’s enemies prayed to God the father from the cross, “Forgive them, father! They don’t know what they are doing;” (Lk 23:34) and blessed the penitent abundantly, “I promise that today you will be in paradise with me.” (Lk 23:43) The passion of Christ, especially on the cross, didn’t make him deny his father’s will, but made him strong enough to complete his mission and pray, “Father, into your hands I commend my spirit.” (Lk 23:46) How can a man die like this? The centurion couldn’t believe it; he said, “Truly this man was the Son of God.” (Mk 15:39) Cross, the symbol of curse now became the centre of early Christian proclamation. St. Paul says, “When I came to you, brothers, proclaiming the mystery of God, I did not come with sublimity of words or of wisdom. For I resolved to know nothing while I was with you except Jesus Christ, and him crucified.” (1Cor 2:1, 2) Am I proud of Jesus’ cross?  Do I believe in its abundant salvific and sanctifying power?   
                
 Prayer: Oh Mary, mother of sorrows! We come to you today for your special maternal help and protection. Mary, our mother and guide; help us to understand the meaning of cross and its redemptive in our life. In this holy mystery we specially pray for all those who have lost their lives for their strong faith in Jesus. Let them be given the gift of eternal abode and peace; and give us the courage and strength to witness to Jesus even at danger of death. May Mother Mary, who followed Jesus faithfully to Calvary and even after, intercede for them, and be with us always! Amen! 


Greetings:  Wish you all a nice and blissful Marian Friday!  

No comments:

Post a Comment