Mass Readings
Reading 1 – Jeremiah 20:7-9
Psalm – Psalm 62:2-6, 8-9
Reading 2 – Romans 12:1-2
Gospel – Matthew 16:21-27
Reflection
We are coming close to the beginning of Spring. We are conscious that for the last five months or so, not only have we been going through this winter time with its dark mornings and some very cold days but into the midst of that we have also been battling Covid-19 which has been affecting our lives and livelihoods. The rhythm of our life has been interrupted, family, social, working life and school life. We have felt the stress of this and yet at the same time, we have attempted to find ways and strategies to navigate our day, to embrace attitudes and behaviours, that help us to life meaningfully and with purpose.
In the gospel the lives of the disciples of Jesus have been going according to their expectations but now he shares his way of fulfilling the mission given him by his Father. This is a severe interruption for the disciples and for all that they had hoped from him. The present reality of our world is one of fragility where inequalities and injustices are experienced, all which causes great suffering. Jesus is calling his disciples to follow him to a way of life that will address this. It will not be without difficulties and suffering. He says to them, “if anyone wants to be a follower of mine, let them deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me”. Jesus doesn’t love suffering and the suffering of the cross for its own sake but he embraces it willingly in order to fulfil the mission given to him by the Father. He gave over his whole life in love to free human beings from the suffering that comes from sickness, hunger, injustice, abuse, sin and death itself.
We, as disciples of Jesus are called to accompany him in his way. We too know the challenges of this, especially during this time of pandemic. We are carrying the burden of suffering at this time and yet it is not without meaning. For example, the restrictions that we are called to embrace are not only for our sakes but for the sake of all, both to protect people and to care for people. We do recognize that they are actions asked of us, that are about assisting others whether within our family or with other kinds of commitments we have. Yes, our lives have been drastically interrupted and have made us do things differently and maybe some even better, but also as disciples of Jesus, we pray for the strength and the grace to bear the sufferings that are part of creating a more human and compassionate and life giving environment for all.
Fr Martin Ashe, Parish Priest