Tuesday of Holy Week

Two days ago, on Palm Sunday, events were set into motion that cannot be stopped. Today, Tuesday of Holy Week, we find ourselves inexorably drawn toward the Passion. In the Gospel, we hear Jesus predict that Judas will betray Him. In fact, He instructs him, “What you are going to do, do quickly.” There is no room here for hesitation or delay. Jesus’ hour has come, and He will persevere to the end.

In an interesting juxtaposition of events, today our Archdiocese also celebrates the annual Chrism Mass. At this Mass, Archbishop Coyne will bless the Holy Oils that will be used across the Archdiocese for Baptisms, Confirmations, Ordinations, and Anointings of the Sick. Additionally, the priests of the Archdiocese will renew their promises to the Archbishop, commemorating the moment when Jesus made His Apostles the first bishops of His Church.

In these celebrations of the Holy Mass, we witness both the call to holiness and service, and the challenges we face as we strive to live God’s will. I think it is especially important that we consider these two occasions as we move more deeply into Holy Week during this Jubilee Year of Hope. Hope is believing and trusting in things we cannot see. It is more than an earthly, “I hope I get this particular outcome.” Rather, it is a radical dependence on the promises Jesus has given: a place in the Father’s house, everlasting life, peace, and much more.

In the Gospel proclaimed at the Chrism Mass, Jesus reads from the Prophet Isaiah, declaring that He is the fulfillment of the Old Testament, announcing a year of favor from the Lord, releasing captives, and healing the sick. In the Gospel for the day, Jesus, the Anointed One who embodies the fullness of God’s love, knows that one of His closest friends will betray Him and, in fact, urges him to do so quickly so that no time will be lost before His love is extravagantly outpoured for all His children.

Jesus’ words resonate with us as well: “What you are going to do, do quickly.” If the Lord is calling you, do not hesitate. Do not fear. Hope in the graces He will give you as you strive to do His will. Remember, He is the Incarnation of our loving and personal God, who “makes all things new” and who desires to be with us in all things. Let us proclaim together: “Forever I will sing the goodness of the Lord.”