LENTEN REFLECTION: A Set of Instructions for Sacrifice, Humility and Love

March 24, 2016

By:

Joey Pengson

Today's Readings:
First Reading: Ex 12:1-8, 11-14 Responsorial Psalm: Ps 116:12-13, 15-16bc, 17-18 Second Reading: 1 Cor 11:23-26 Gospel: Jn 13:1-15

Reflection:

Today’s 1st reading is about blood and death, a bit disturbing.

It describes the Passover as “striking down the firstborn of the land, both man and beast, and executing judgment on all the gods of Egypt. … the blood will mark the houses where you are. Seeing the blood, I will pass over you”

The Responsorial Psalm refers to the cup of salvation as “our blessing cup is a communion with the Blood of Christ”

The 2nd reading then shifts to the last supper where the Apostles and Jesus have some wine symbolizing “the new covenant in my blood”.

“A New Commandment: Love one another as I have loved you”

The Gospel then describes another symbolic act between Jesus and His disciples, the washing of their feet and declaring, “Not all of you are clean.”

Today’s readings present us with a set of instructions.

The first, a rather violent result challenging one’s faith with the death of one’s first born if the instructions are not followed. The second is an example in humility by Jesus who washes the feet of His Disciples.

Is it necessary for us to experience the threat of blood and death in order to follow, obey and behave in a manner that brings us closer to God?

Or may we follow the nourishing and healing example of Jesus who humbles Himself by washing the feet of His loyal followers and sacrifices His life in order to show us the better path?

Or be guided by the 3rd and simplest of instructions: to love one another as He continues to love us?

Jose Antonio M. Pengson (GS1969, HS1973, BSME1978) is currently the Ateneo Alumni Association president.

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