It is already after 3 PM in Jerusalem, the hour that Jesus has died on a cross, the symbol of Roman oppression and power. Most of the disciples had fled and only his mother and one or two women stayed. The body will need to be taken down and buried. Fortunately, there will be a tomb.
So often there are no tombs for people murdered by the desire for power. So often savagery is extended even to the dead. So often those in charge just shovel bodies into mass graves or leave them to be eaten by wild animals.
We ask why the good die for the perpetuation of evil. We know, of course, that evil does not exist apart from us, we human beings. These are the questions that sear our souls.
Prayer for the Day
As the day dawns, O God, we remember the meaning of sacrifice,
And we wonder how to address the evil we see around us;
When the night comes, O God, we will seek your solace,
For we do not comprehend how cruelty abides in the world.
Bestow your mercy on us, O God, and forgive our fears,
Breaking the seals around our hearts we so often have.
In the name of the One who gave all even unto death,
Even Christ Jesus our Lord, Amen.
Thoughts for the Day
Blessed are those who hunger and thirst after righteousness; for they shall be filled. Not only do the followers of Jesus renounce their own rights; they renounce their own righteousness as well.
Dietrich Bonhoeffer, German pastor and martyr (1906-1945)
So many people have found a meaning to their life, to struggle, to sacrifice, and even to die. And whether their life span is 16, or 60 or 90, their life has had a purpose. In many ways, they are fortunate people.
Sr. Ita Ford I a letter to her niece, murdered in El Salvador, December 2, 1980
Do not be far from me, for trouble is near, and there is no one to help.
Psalm 22: 11