|
We have just heard the reading of the Passion. The Passion of Our Lord is a very moving story. It is one that beckons to us to see and hear the sounds of Jesus’ last hours on earth. For those of us who have seen Mel Gibson’s movie The Passion, the words read today may bring up memories that help us to better visualize the agony of Our Lord’s sufferings.
Apparently the road to eternal life is covered in the precious blood, sweat and tears of Jesus the carpenter from Nazareth. Nazareth, a small border town of Galilee, was considered to be among the least of Judean villages. Its only claim to fame was that it was located near the outskirts of the city of Sepphoris, which was rebuilt under the orders of Herod Antipas. Described by the historian Josephus as “the ornament of all Galilee”, Sepphoris’ beauty only made the small hillside village of Nazareth appear even more humble.
The words of Nathaniel to Philip, “Can anything good come out of Nazareth?” seem appropriate for today’s reflection. Nathanael, who became one of the Twelve, was at first quite doubtful when Philip brought him the good news. The Apostle John writes, “Philip found Nathanael and said to him, ‘We have found him about whom Moses in the law and also the prophets wrote, Jesus son of Joseph from Nazareth.’ 46Nathanael said to him, ‘Can anything good come out of Nazareth?’ Philip said to him, ‘Come and see.’
Now that same Jesus of Nazareth is welcomed into the capital city of Jerusalem with an adoring crowd and hailed as King. Yet, within a few short days this same Jesus is crowned with a circle of twisted thorns; then nailed to a rough hewn cross. The small town carpenter that seemed to have reached the height of glory is forced to die a criminal’s death. “Can anything good come out of Nazareth?”
Abandoned and denied by His closest followers, only a handful remained to help bury the mutilated body of this forlorn leader. The week that began in glorious triumph ends in silent defeat. Yet, there is still fear among His enemies, who obtain permission to have this seemingly false prophet’s tomb sealed with a huge stone and secured by a guard of soldiers. We are left wondering like Nathanael, “Can anything good come out of Nazareth?”
Lest we leave this sad scene with no hope, we need to also remember Philip’s reply to Nathanael, “Come and see.” As your pastor, I invite all of you to “Come and see” Jesus’ last moments on earth as we journey with Him through the Liturgy of Holy Week on the Way to the cross. Then “Come and see” how Jesus turns what appears to be complete defeat into overwhelming victory. Even if you have journeyed through Holy Week before, each time there is something new to be learned. Some new revelation to be given that is only for this moment in time. “Come and see.” It just may change your life.
| 
