Human and Divine

The striking, matter of fact, account of the Passion in today’s Gospel illustrates Jesus at some of his most human and most divine moments. The calm demeanor Jesus demonstrates in John’s description of the passion in today’s gospel always gives me pause. Jesus seems to accept his impending crucifixion as a matter of course. Jesus continues to stay true to who he is even when a mere word to Pilate could have freed him. There are times I imagine Jesus sparring with Pilate almost sarcastically with his words, “Do you say this on your own or have others told you about me?” However, throughout the passage Jesus remains calm and peaceful as he walks to his death. What was he thinking through the betrayal and false accusations? How did he remain so calm throughout? What would the world look like if we all reacted so calmly to those who betray us or falsely accuse us?

The juxtaposition of the calm in John’s Gospel with how I envision Jesus suffering through the Stations of the Cross is a reminder of the purely human side of Jesus. The man who fell under the weight of the cross and needed help along the way is easier to relate to as a human. However, today’s gospel contains reminders that Jesus suffered emotional pain as well. When Jesus sees his mother, his love is shown as he gives his mother to his beloved disciple. Imagine the emotional pain he must have endured. It is often said that the crosses we bear bring us closer to understanding God. As we see so many suffering from the weight of the cross Covid has placed on them, we must call upon the strength Jesus demonstrated. For many the weight of the cross is unbearable, in these times we are called to be Simon of Cyrene. Today, I am called to reflect on how to help others through their pain. How can we better support each other free from judgement and preconceived opinions?

Author: Molly O'Sullivan, Asst. Principal of Academics