Scripture:
Jeremiah 18:18-20
Matthew 20:17-28
Reflection:
Jesus asked the sons of Zebedee, ‘Can you drink the chalice that I am going to drink?’ They replied, ‘We can.”
During this season of Lent it behooves us to reflect on what our answer to Jesus would be when asked this question.
LORD, HOLD US IN YOUR MERCY?
When we turn away because of fear.
When we say, let me think about it and never do.
When we really want to say YES, but find it just too hard.
It was not easy for Jesus to embrace this chalice. Remember in the garden when he prayed, ‘Father, if it is possible take this cup away from me!’
Recently I was privileged to hear the witness of several women in various stages of recovery who say yes daily to drinking the chalice of Jesus. They are living through the pain of addiction, homelessness, prostitution, poverty, abuse, neglect and so much more. Their recovery is filled with uncertainty, loneliness and fear. Their courage and strength comes from a new found faith in a God who loves them unconditionally even when they are unable to love themselves.
Lent calls us to suffer and die to our pride, greed, selfishness, irresponsibility. Jesus is asking us ‘Can you drink the chalice that I am going to drink?’ Our answer can only be YES! May our Lenten journey open our minds and hearts to embrace the suffering of the cross thereby gaining everlasting life in the Lord.
Have a grace-filled Lent!
Theresa Secord is a Pastoral Associate at St. Agnes Parish, Louisville, Kentucky.