Today we have one of the longest First Readings that we have in the entire lectionary. It is the 13th Chapter, a long chapter, from the book of the Prophet Daniel. It is almost 60 verses long. It is the story of this beautiful, faithful woman, Susanna, who is falsely accused by two corrupt evil old men, who wanted to have their way with her. Lying to protect themselves the two wicked elders seek to have Susanna put to death.
Then Daniel steps in, advocates for her: and the two corrupt judges were convicted and Susanna goes free.
As I mentioned last week, our scripture readings for the last part of Lent point not so much to Lenten penances that we are to undertake, but to Christ. They help us prepare to why Jesus suffered, the hostility toward him, and what he accomplished through his death and resurrection.
How does the Susanna story point to Christ? Who is Christ in the story? In a sense he is Susanna: beautiful, faithful, innocent, arrested because of the words of corrupt elders.
And though, like her, he suffers—in his case—humiliation, torture, revilement, mockery, suffering, and death—he is exonerated—vindicated by God, as Susanna was by Daniel. His Father testifies on Christ’s behalf, as we heard in the Gospel, when Jesus is raised from the dead.
In our responsorial Psalm, we proclaimed the beautiful words of Psalm 23: “Even though I walk in the dark valley I fear no evil; for you are at my side”. Both Susanna and Jesus exhibit trust in the Father’s will throughout their sufferings.
In the midst of her ordeal, Susanna cried aloud to God in prayer: “O eternal God, you know what is hidden and are aware of all things”. Like her, Jesus prayed to his Father throughout his ordeal, particularly in the Garden, trusting his Father, bowing to his Father’s will.
If these final Lenten weekday readings only helped us understand and appreciate what Jesus suffered in holy week, they would be beneficial for that. But that also help us to follow his example. In the course of the Christian life we will face opposition and suffering. The carrying of our own unique personal crosses will be difficult. But in the midst of our crosses, we must turn to God and trust in God. He is at our side.
At the end of the first reading, we heard how “the whole assembly cried aloud, blessing God who saves those who hope in him.” Not only is Jesus foreshadowed in the Susanna reading, but his body the Church as well. We are that assembly who now cries out, blessing God who saves those who hope in him.
May that cry of hope resound in our lives, as we unite our crosses with the cross of Christ, that we may testify in word and deed that salvation is found in him, for the glory of God and the salvation of souls.
- - - -
Trusting in the Lord who saves those who hope in Him, let us confidently offer our prayers and petitions.
For the Church, may all her members remain steadfast in faith, courageously witnessing to the truth and justice of Christ. Let us pray to the Lord.
For leaders and judges throughout the world, that they may act with integrity, honesty, and justice, protecting the innocent and vulnerable from harm. Let us pray to the Lord.
For all who suffer unjust accusations, persecution, or false judgments, that they may find strength, consolation, and vindication in Christ, who Himself endured injustice. Let us pray to the Lord.
For those experiencing difficulties and sufferings in their lives, that they may trust deeply in God's presence and providential care, recognizing His closeness even in dark times. Let us pray to the Lord.
For our parish community, that during these final days of Lent, we may unite our own crosses to the cross of Christ, offering a powerful testimony of faith and hope to the world. Let us pray to the Lord.
For our departed loved ones, that they may experience the eternal vindication and joy of heaven, resting forever in God's merciful embrace. Let us pray to the Lord.
Heavenly Father, hear the prayers of your people gathered here in faith. Help us to remain hopeful and trusting, knowing you walk with us always. We ask this through Christ our Lord.
No comments:
Post a Comment