Wednesday, March 27

Jesus went out as usual to the Mount of Olives, and his disciples followed him. On reaching the place, he said to them, "Pray that you will not fall into temptation." He withdrew about a stone's throw beyond them, knelt down and prayed, "Father, if you are willing, take this cup from me; yet not my will, but yours be done." (Luke 22: 39-42)

                 LENT 2004

Standing in line for The Passion of the Christ 

People chatting, laughing. Do they know the sacrifice?

I think of Jesus' words His final week

I am in the garden 

     tramping feet

     is it Judas 

"Not my will, but yours be done."

     the ultimate prayer

     total trust 

"Why are you sleeping?"

     a kiss, betrayal 

     swords, an ear removed

It's a long line, but moving now.

"Father forgive them." 

"Today you will be with me in Paradise."

     compassion

     healing love 

"Into Thy hands I commend my spirit."

     love involves suffering

     being spit upon 

"It is finished."

     obedience 

     Redemption

I am the crowd yelling 

"Crucify Him." 

I want to flee, but can't move 

I need to feel the pain, see the wounds

I buy my ticket and enter the darkness.

Kaye White