“The Son of Man is going to be handed over to the power of men.’ But the disciples did not know what this meant.” (Lk 9:44b, 45)

“The Son of Man is going to be handed over to the power of men.’ But the disciples did not know what this meant.” (Lk 9:44b, 45)

Today’s Passage: Lk 9:43b-45

Meditation: It is something a natural reaction from the disciples. After seeing the works of Jesus the people were still marveling at Jesus. (Lk 9:43b) And Jesus’ disciples also might have felt the same. Now comes Jesus’ reminder, “‘don’t forget what I am about to tell you! The Son of Man is going to be handed over to the power of men.’ But the disciples did not know what this meant.” (Lk 9:44b, 45) How can they understand this? A man who is doing great things, even miracles and wonders, is all on a sudden going to be handed over to the power of men. “It is impossible!” they might have thought. The people who enjoyed the miracle of feeding the five thousand now want Jesus to be their king, someone who will liberate them from the roman domination. But after some time when they heard Jesus saying he is the bread from heaven, they asked, “How can this man give us his flesh to eat?” They could not understand him and some of them turned back and would not go with him anymore. (Jn 6) Do you remember what had happened on Jesus’ trial? The people who cried out Hosanna to the Son of David are now shouting “Kill him! Kill him! Crucify him!” (Jn 19:15) Why this change? It may be because they expected a political Messiah in Jesus Christ, but now he has become silent before Pilate. Who needs a silent and pathetic man! They cried out in loud voice, “Kill him! Set free Barabbas for us!” (Lk 23:18 – Barabbas had been put in prison for a riot that had taken place in the city, and for murder.) It doesn’t matter whether you are a saint or sinner, but should be dominant and powerful. Therefore, there is no other way but reject weak and fragile Jesus and accept the strong man Barabbas. Do I realize that I am doing the same thing as these people whenever I go after the power and money of this world and go away from the prayer life or sacramental life? Once again comes Jesus’ reminder ‘don’t forget what I have told you today!’  

          

 Prayer:    Lord God, we thank you and praise you for your daily eternal bread. O Jesus, I trust in you and in your everlasting forgiving love manifested on the cross. We are easily tempted to follow you who perform miracles and wonders for us than one who was crucified for us and our sins. How can we love the crosses and sufferings in our lives without loving you, the crucified one? O Holy Cross, we come to you with our own daily crosses, help us to love and bear them. Amen! 

                 

Greetings:  Take courage! God is with you! Have a nice and blissful Saturday…