February 27th - Reflection

Reading
Matthew 23:37-39 (NRSV)
Jesus laments over Jerusalem

"Jerusalem, Jerusalem, the city that kills the prophets and stones those who are sent to it! How often have I desired to gather your children together as a hen gathers her brood under her wings, and you were not willing! See, your house is left to you, desolate. For I tell you, you will not see me again until you say, 'Blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord.' "

Reflection
Jesus knows the outcome of this journey. He knows what he is about to face. Yet, his love and compassion is so great that he truly wants to gather all people under his caring wings and protect them. Jesus wants all to see God as the loving, gracious and forgiving God of life. Jesus knows that he will take on the sin of the world on that cross a few days from now. He knows that the air in his lungs will cease and he will face death for the very people he loves so much.

But he also knows that there is a breath that will not cease. He knows that the Holy Spirit will breathe new life into him at his resurrection and breath new life into each one of us as we come forth from the waters. Come forth from the waters, having our sinned drowned and that old breath of sin and death is gone, and burst forth from our baptismal waters, and take in the new breath of life that only the Holy Spirit can grant. Life in death.

Jesus knows the outcome. Jesus knows the journey. Jesus knows the life-giving breath of the Holy Spirit. But above all, Jesus knows the Love of God for the people of God. Thanks be to God!

Prayer
Lord, as you face death...remember me...remember all your children...grant each the new breath in the Spirit. ---Amen