This morning it was 34 degrees, and Robert picked us up as usual and right on time for early Mass. Sister Mary Claire kept Mini tucked close for the ride, and we all watched the fields slide by, gray with cold, as we headed toward St. Mary’s.
On the way to church we spoke about today’s meditation from The Circling Year. It was about the moment when Our Lord stood before the high priest and one of the servants struck Him across the face. I tried to imagine it — Jesus standing there with His hands bound, His eyes lowered, and everyone around Him shouting and accusing Him. The servant struck Him even though Jesus had done nothing wrong. Yet Our Lord did not become angry or shout back. Instead He answered calmly and gently, saying, “Why strikest thou Me?”
During his homily Father LeRoy explained that this shows us the wonderful meekness of Jesus. He told us that if anyone had the right to defend Himself, it was Our Lord, the King of Heaven. But Jesus chose patience instead. Father said sometimes we complain when we are corrected or when someone says something unkind to us, yet Jesus endured insults and suffering without anger. He said the meditation teaches us how strong real gentleness can be.
Father also spoke about the part where false witnesses accused Jesus. Our Lord kept silent through many of the accusations. Father LeRoy said this silence should make us think about how quickly we try to defend ourselves. Sometimes, he said, the holiest thing is to stay quiet and trust God, and to let our hearts stay with Jesus instead of trying to win every little argument.
On the ride home Robert said Lent is a time to keep our eyes on Jesus, especially when He was treated unfairly and still loved people anyway. Sister Mary Claire nodded and held her Rosary quietly, and Mini rested her chin on the seat between us as if she was listening carefully to every word.
Tonight the house is quiet, and I am thinking about the Sacred Face of Jesus that was struck for love of us.
Evening Prayer
Dear Jesus,
When You were struck, You did not strike back.
When You were accused, You did not shout.
You were gentle and steady, even when it hurt.
Please make my heart more like Yours.
Help me to be quiet inside when I want to fuss, and to stay close to You when things are hard.
Bless Sister Mary Claire, Robert, and dear little Mini, and keep our home safe through the night.
Amen.
Love,
Kathy
Sources: The Circling Year
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