If you’ve ever had to say goodbye to someone, you treasure the last words spoken. You remember what was said. You hold on to those final words. For Lent in 2021, we are focusing on the last words of Jesus from the cross. What did he say? What does it mean for us? How do those words change us? This week, we hear a word of forgiveness from the cross. Jesus said of those who were executing him, “Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.” (Luke 23:34)
*Note–This week the theme begins on Wednesday. Sunday through Tuesday are a follow up to Mission Sunday.
Today is Tuesday and we consider the mission God has given to us as His disciples.
Invocation
In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, Amen!
Word: John 20:19-21
On the evening of that day, the first day of the week, the doors being locked where the disciples were for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood among them and said to them, “Peace be with you.” When he had said this, he showed them his hands and his side. Then the disciples were glad when they saw the Lord. Jesus said to them again, “Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, even so I am sending you.” And when he had said this, he breathed on them and said to them, “Receive the Holy Spirit.
Meditation
Having completed his epic journey, Odysseus returns to Ithaca in disguise. The only person who recognizes him is Eurycelia, his childhood nurse. And how does she know him? By a scar on Odysseus’ leg, just above the knee.
In the gospel passage, Jesus returns from HIs epic journey of the cross, the descent into hell, and the empty tomb, in order to greet his disciples. Apparently, they don’t recognize Him at first. Not until He shows them His scars, they “rejoiced when they saw the Lord.”
Though we hate to do so, revealing our weaknesses is the only way to be fully known by another. And learning to see the powerful grace of God in our scars is the only way to grow as His followers. We may admire strength in another, but that does not inspire intimacy, that does not foster growth. Remember what the prophet Isaiah says, “by His wounds we are healed.” (Is. 53.5)
May we see our wounds and our scars not as something to hide, but as an opportunity to be vulnerable with others who bear their own wounds and scars, and then witness to the incredible love and grace of Christ who is the redemption of all our scars. Your Heavenly Father, knows our weaknesses and yet loves us. Through Christ may you, in your weakness, experience His strength.
Closing
Christ Jesus, your mission was to seek and to save the lost, to bring healing to the sick, to raise the dead to life. Your rescue mission carries on through your body, the Church. Send us as your redeemed ones to those who are far from you, lost and wandering. Make us vessels of hope to the hurting, love to the lonely, grace to the grieving, and reconciliation to the lost. Amen.