Reading, Reflection and Prayer

Two accounts of resurrection appearances - on the Emmaus road, and eating fish with the disciples. We think about how Jesus uses these occasions to prepare the disciples for the ascension. Bread and wine, scriptures that point to Jesus and the gift of the Holy Spirit - all given to sustain those disciples and us in our life of faith.

The crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus. We think about the criminal on the cross who turns to Jesus and says 'Lord, remember me...'. In many ways a model of how all of us are able to come to Jesus aware of our own sinfulness and simply throwing ourselves on his mercy.

The trial scenes. In front of the council of Elders; off to Pilate; referred to Herod; and sent back to Pilate, where he is unjustly sentenced in response to the pressure of the crowd. We reflect on how 'crowd-think' can so easily overtake us.

Jesus and the disciples in the garden of Gethsemane; his arrest and Peter's denial. Ruth reflects on the sorrow contained in this passage. The disciples are so 'exhausted from sorrow' that they fall asleep at a critical juncture. Jesus has no such opportunity - but must go through it all.

The account of Judas' betrayal, of the last supper and of Jesus predicting Peter's betrayal: 'Satan has asked to sift you like wheat'. We compare the role of Satan in these two stories and also think about the way in which Luke gives us just a little more detail of the passover meal - including the cup before the meal as well as the cup following the meal.

Jesus' prophecy of the destruction of Jerusalem and the signs of the end of the age. We reflect on his words to the disciples. He tells them that they will be badly treated and imprisoned and some will be killed. It's a long way from a false version of Christian faith that might suggest that faith will lead to things going better for us in this life. Yet - if the disciples stand firm they will be saved in the end.

A series of taxing questions for Jesus (pun intended). The questioners are 'pretending to be honest' in their intent but are really out to get him. We reflect on the wisdom with which he is able to reply. We also think about the way that in our prayer lives we often deceive ourselves, and yet God is also able to bring clarity and truth to bear as we come before him.

The parable of the tenants. We think about what the master was expecting when he sent his servants to the tenants. What is the fruit that the master expects? We also turn our attention to the stone the builders have rejected that becomes the capstone. Falling onto Jesus leads to our being broken, and this is the precondition of our reconstruction and transformation.

The beginning of controversy in the temple. Ruth focusses on Jesus' description of the temple as a house of prayer. How important to remember that prayer is at the heart of things. It's an encouraging reminder to us in Lent to build our prayer muscles and to grow in our relationship with the Lord.

The triumphal entry. After Jesus' entrance into Jerusalem he laments the destiny of the city. It's rejection of him will lead to its destruction. Ruth comments on the 'weeping' that is evocative of deep sorrow. We think about our need to have the same kind of compassion that Jesus does.