A reading from the holy Gospel according to Luke (Lk 9:43b-45)
While they were all amazed at his every deed, Jesus said to his disciples, “Pay attention to what I am telling you. The Son of Man is to be handed over to men.” But they did not understand this saying; its meaning was hidden from them so that they should not understand it, and they were afraid to ask him about this saying.
Jesus performs miraculous works among the people, causing astonishment among them and the disciples. When he speaks to the disciples, Jesus explains that he will be betrayed. Although the disciples do not comprehend his words—perhaps fearful of hearing unnerving details—they were afraid to ask him to tell them more about the saying “The Son of Man is to be handed over to men.” Jesus asks that the disciples pay attention to him and hear his words. Yet, what they are afraid to learn more about is the beginning of Christ’s suffering and death, the means of reconciling humanity to God through his death and resurrection. What particular message is there in the Gospel, the word of God, that alarms and causes anxiety? Whatever it is, God’s love is there within it.
God, help me understand that you work in ways I fail to comprehend. In the first reading, you say to Zechariah through an angel: “But I will be for [Jerusalem] an encircling wall of fire, says the LORD, and I will be the glory in her midst. . . . See, I am coming to dwell among you.” You are always present, Lord, encircling me even when I look ahead and believe there is reason to fear. Again, in the responsorial psalm, you turn mourning into joy and gladden the sorrowful. “The Lord will guard us a shepherd guards his flock.” In yesterday’s reading, Jesus said to Nathanael, indicating the glory of your heavenly kingdom: “You will see greater things than this.” Give me a resolute heart, Lord, to pay attention to your word and trust in your love.
From the Gospel acclamation: “Our Savior Christ Jesus destroyed death and brought life to light through the Gospel.” Saint Jerome, pray for us!
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit, as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.