42nd Day of Lent: April 15, 2014: “Betray me”, “Deny me”

 42^nd Day of Lent:

April 15, 2014:

 “Betray me”, “Deny me”

The second day of the Holy Week

we are presented with another painful reality of human person. 

People who betray us, people who deny us! Oh that is painful especially if it comes from a member of the family or community.

It is heartbreaking, heart-wrenching like a punch in your stomach. It is a very sad reality that we often face in life. Almost a month ago I remember of being so ripped apart by some people that I was beside myself. 

The Son of God must have felt devastated by the betrayal of Judas and denial of Peter two of his trusted friends. Jesus did not allow his sadness to overwhelm him. 

He was able to rise above the human weakness and tells Judas, “do what you intend to do”.

Jesus reminded Peter that bad days are ahead of him that he will deny him three times. 

Judas felt ashamed of his wretchedness and hung himself thinking that God will never forgive me. 

Peter on the other hand received the loving gaze of the savior after his third denial. 

That got him. 

The long loving look of Jesus upon a sinner Peter is so life-changing an event in the drama of passion of Jesus. 

That struck him to the core of his being and Peter burst out in tears of compunction, sorrow, and guilt. 

Peter believed in the merciful gaze of his savior and repented.

So who do you want to be, Peter or Judas?

I would rather be Peter who was never afraid to be vulnerable but open to the mercy offered by Jesus. Peter gave all he had to Jesus for the Lord gave all he had for him, his love and his life. 

Pope Francis has never ceased to amaze us by his vulnerability and strong commitment to a Church of mercy.

Let us be reminded that we are a church of the sinners and saints. 

We are all in the process of becoming who God wants us to be, grace and mercy are readily available. 

What are you waiting for?

God Bless you always!

Sincerely Yours,
Rev. Fr. Cyriac Chandy Mattathilanickal, MS

Wishing you and yours A Holy Lent!

Rev. Fr. Tom Puthusseril, M.S.

Shrine Director

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