Homily Monday of Holy Week (Isaiah 42:1-7) “Often, the Just Suffer”
Homily Monday of Holy Week (Isaiah 42:1-7) “Often, the Just Suffer”
One of the traditions of Holy Week is that we read the four suffering servant songs from the Book of the Prophet Isaiah. A person is described in these psalms who is just and good, but who suffers insult and torture despite their innocence.
The Jews interpret this person to be representative of the People of Israel as a whole. The Israelites were subject to much oppression through the centuries. You would think that being God’s chosen people that this would have preserved them from such treatment. But as we know Israel was conquered and sent into exile on several occasions. God’s people have even been the victims of genocide.
For Christians, these songs have come to represent the person of Jesus. We see them as a description of the mission and passion of Jesus Christ. Jesus was the savior who was insulted, tortured and dismissed. Those who hated Jesus tried to wipe his memory from the earth and they still try to do this today.
The first servant song that we read today describes how the suffering servant is an agent for justice. The servant preaches that all should have equality. He seeks to free the innocent from bondage. He wants to heal all those who are ill. He is a light to the nations.
The servant songs remind us that good people often suffer, but that does not mean that they are being punished by God. No, their heroic suffering speaks of their authenticity. It is proof of their sincerity. They are victims of evil forces in the world. If someone endures endless difficulties as they stand up for justice and truth, this is pleasing in the eyes of the Lord and they will have a prominent place in the Kingdom. We should have immense respect for those who struggle for what is right and good.
Reflection Questions:
- When I see someone suffering as they work for a just cause do I wonder why they don’t quit advocating that cause? Have I had that experience? When?
- What if Jesus would have given in and saved himself? Would his mission in the world failed?
Dear Parishioners,
As the Easter Triduum approaches please keep several things in mind. The first is that we have limited capacity in our church because of COVID protocols. We can seat somewhere between 125 and 150 people for any one service. We still must try to keep household 6 feet apart. The pandemic is still a part of our lives. We will do our best to get people in. If you have not made a reservation, I would advise you to watch the services on Facebook.
Holy Communion will be distributed in the parking lot after the livestream broadcasts on Holy Thursday, Good Friday and Easter 9 a.m. services. Please watch at home and if you would like to receive communion you can drive over to the church.
The obligation to attend Mass has still not been reinstated so you are not sinning if don’t attend. I am please that so many people want to worship in person, but I am limited in what I can do to have everybody in church. As your pastor I must try to keep people as safe as possible. I pray for your understanding.
May Our Lady and All the Angels and Saints watch over you today.
Fr Mark