Surely this was the Son of God

The centurion who stood guard near Jesus had witnesses countless crucifixions.  He had helped put people on the cross, and had probably participated in the vindictive torture of many.  But as this pagan sees how Jesus dies, he makes what could be considered a profession of faith.  He stands there watching the horro with honesty and truthfully.

On this Palm Sunday that is really the challenge as to how to approach this recollection of the death of Jesus on the cross.  When we look at the broken body of Jesus we are challenged to own the death and possess it.  More so we might also recognize the brokenness of the body of Christ in the world today.  The horror of Sin and Evil afflicts every aspect of human life and activity.  But we believe that it is by dying that we are restored to eternal life.  St. Mark wants us to understand that this Kingdom that Jesus' establishes is not some far off place, but it is here in our midst.

In the Gospels that ones who are able to embrace the Paschal Mystery first are the poor, broken, and the anawim.  They do not have attachments to power, authority, or prestige. They try to hold on to what little dignity and integrity they have.  Mark begins his account with a woman who pours expensive perfume over Jesus as a sign of devotion and commitment.  She risks, and receives, criticism for her actions.  But this is her response of faith.  A true disciple spars no expense in devotion to the Body of Christ.

In John's passion account the insiders are shown to be the outsiders, and those on the outside discover truth.  It has a lot to do as to whether the cross becomes religious art, with an occasional devotional leaning, or whether it is the life that we live on a day to day basis.  In the texts today, and all of this week, we run head on into the transforming power of the cross.  When we are courageous enough to die to the Sin and sinfulness of life, we begin to experience new life.  Again as always I think that what the Gospels are calling us to is way beyond simply being nice to others.

The cross is a radical sign of God's faithfulness.  In a similar radical way we have to respond to all of the good that God has given to us.  Our lives becomes an ongoing conversion and discipleship.  I would love to have an outdoor procession on Palm Sunday so as to have that sense of walking with Jesus.  Because in the end that procession with the Lord is what our faith is all about.  Some day go into the sanctuary and look up at the crucifix.  It can be a powerful experience.  But it is an experience we should have every day.