SUNDAY OF THE LORD’S PASSION (Cycle C) 20 March 2016

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GOSPEL TEXT: LUKE 23:1 – 49
Theme: THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS OVER THE REALITY OF EVIL

I. Opening Prayer

Because of our sins, we have created pains and sufferings that have pushed many to
the margins of society. Help us to embrace Your cross, O Lord Jesus, and lead us to a
renewed life in Your mercy now and forever. Amen.

II. Key Points

v1 Then the whole company of them arose, and brought him before Pilate.—we see a
conspiracy of those with evil intent who made desperate efforts to prove Jesus’ guilt that
would lead to his death

v24 So Pilate gave sentence that their demand should be granted.—the brutality of the
people pressured Pilate; to please the people, Pilate did not have the courage to go
against the pressure

v28 And there followed him a great multitude of the people, and of women who
bewailed and lamented him.—with the reality of evil before them, the people seemed to
be helpless to fight such barbaric act

v34 "Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do."—the power of Jesus in
overcoming evil was expressed through his forgiving love; his mercy, even in his agony,
was the testament of the power of love

vv44-46 …there was darkness over the whole land… and the curtain of the temple was
torn in two. Then Jesus said, "Father, into thy hands I commit my spirit!" And … he
breathed his last.—the overwhelming reality of sin has placed the entire world under
judgment; but through the salvation brought by Jesus’ ultimate sacrifice, everyone is
given an access to the mercy of God

III. Reflection/Deepening

We may find ourselves in a world where evil is too much to bear. We may be
overwhelmed with the conspiracy of evil in a society where sinful intent takes control
over clear conscience. The pressure of evil is often devastating that it may bring death
even to the innocent victim. In the face of such realities of sin, we may just give up
because of fear of losing power; or may find ourselves defenseless and just cry in
agony. Amidst all these, the power of Jesus—in His mercy and forgiveness—overcomes
all sin and death. His death brings redemption leading to new life. His love witnessed
through His total self-giving is His victory over His enemies. In His cross, Jesus has
redeemed the world.

IV. Sharing Guide: • What is my experience of the victory of Christ over my sinfulness?