Some reflections during the Holy Week 2021
1. Father, forgive them for they know not what they do.
It is not easy to forgive, especially if the offense committed against you scarred you for life, or you almost ”died” literally or figuratively because of that event. Through the life, death, and resurrection of the Lord Jesus Christ, God´s begotten son, God sets an example. It may be difficult to forgive, but it is not impossible. Forgiving can begin with these words.
2. Today, you will be with me in paradise.
God gives here a promise – if only we asked. The ”good” thief asked, and he got an answer.
3. Woman behold your son. Son, behold your mother.
God wants us to honor relationships, especially that between parents and their children and vice versa, etc. As human beings, we are asked to care for those who are nearest us. If we could care for others, we could do as much for those whom we know, starting from home.
4. My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?
These words have always haunted me. I guess many others who have indelible though invisible scars or have lost something precious at some points in their lives, have had the urge to say these words. It is humane to cry out when we are in pain or in great trouble, like the world was closing in on us. It helps us to get a better perspective with respect to possible avenues for healing when we accept we are hurt at times.
5. I thirst.
This is also another cry for help. God showed us it is okay to ask for help when the occasion calls for it. A cry for help might not always get the response one needs, but it sets things in motion for change and action. It helps others to open their ears, eyes, and hearts to the reality that any act of kindness and camaraderie they can share with people near them is better than doing nothing at all.
6. It is finished.
Our life is like a book with different chapters. We go through each chapter, hopefully, being awake and pro-active, such that we live, learn, and grow as we go. When a chapter is finished, we take all the lessons we have learned from it, and move on to the next chapters, to live and let live.
7. Father into your hands I commend my spirit.
God is teaching us to look at time with a longer perspective and to trust that all good deeds produce good results, no matter how desperate the present situation might look like. The seventh word of the Lord Jesus Christ on the cross in Calvary, roll in faith, hope, and love into one good bundle our spirits can hold on to. There is someone out there who will help our spirits to soar in due time. For believers, life on earth does not end when their earthly breath stops.
