We begin this Holy Week with the reading of the Lord’s Passion from the Gospel of Saint Matthew. It is fitting that during this week we focus our minds and hearts on the steps of our Savior as He laid down His very life for us. But let us also consider the seemingly small acts of love by some who encountered Jesus during this most eventful week.
One occurred when Jesus gave instructions about the room where He would celebrate the Passover. Jesus said, “Go into the city to a certain man and tell him…” ‘In your house I shall celebrate the Passover with my disciples.’” While we do not know this man’s name, we do know he agreed to this request — he shared the material gift of his home and the gift of
hospitality. Because of his love, his own home became the site of the institution of the Eucharist! That’s what we are doing here! Every day!
There was also Simon the Cyrenian, who offered the gift of his physical strength, helping the Lord to carry His Cross. Consider, too, the actions of Joseph of Arimathea — he generously shared a material gift of the tomb that was his, and he gave the gift of service to our Lord by giving Him a proper burial. Then there were the "two Marys” who gave Jesus the gift of their time. Keeping watch in vigil after His death, they “remained sitting there, facing the tomb.”
Each of these were simple acts of love, yet God used them in mighty ways. God invites each of us, too, to cooperate with Him in small ways through the sharing of our time, talent, and material gifts. Small gifts can become mighty deeds when placed in God’s service.
Thank you for all you do to serve Jesus here in our parish community. May the Lord bless you abundantly as you serve Him this Holy Week!
Rev. Mark Zacker
Pastor
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