A Reflection for Monday of Holy Week
Find today’s readings here.
“Here is my servant whom I uphold,
my chosen one with whom I am pleased.” (Is 42:1)
Most people I know struggle to feel worthy. No matter how many loved ones might reaffirm their wonderful qualities, and no matter how many accomplishments they might rack up, human beings have a difficult time putting down their tools of self-criticism. “Catholic guilt” is yet another layer of this self-doubt spiral for many of us, mixing in a pinch of fear of eternal damnation with our run of the mill negative self-talk.
And while there is much that God asks of us in Scripture, readings like the first from today can offer a balm that we sorely need. The reading from Isaiah might remind you of a familiar New Testament scene: Jesus’ Transfiguration. In Matthew’s Gospel, Jesus takes several disciples with him to the top of a mountain, where he begins to transform. Then, Moses and Elijah appear and begin speaking with him. Here’s the part that sounds a lot like what we hear today. A cloud shadows over them, and the voice of God emerges: “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased” (Mt 17:5).
The words from Isaiah mirror this declaration almost perfectly, and they go on to detail what this servant of God will do for the benefit of all, bringing justice to the nations and peace to those who suffer. These are some serious responsibilities!
But before any of that, God’s first word is one of satisfaction. I am pleased with this beloved one, this servant who goes into the world to do my will and make things better. Primarily, of course, this voice of God is pleased with Jesus Christ, the one who does God’s will in the world perfectly.
As Christians, though, we are striving to be like Christ, to be his hands and feet in the work against today’s struggles. And as human beings, we are already made in his image and likeness. What a gift—if we’re modeled after Christ, we certainly can’t be all bad.
Can you take a moment and let the message sink in that this beloved servant, so precious and pleasing to God, can be you, too?
Our Lenten journey ought to help this sentiment resonate more with us, not less. Our sacrifices and penances are not meant to tear down our sense of worthiness, but to recalibrate our understanding of God and ourselves—and the relationship that exists in between.
Easter is almost within our grasp. In just a few days we’ll celebrate the promise of new life, but for now, let’s marinate in this old life for just a bit longer—the one in which we are, while not perfect, already chosen by God and striving to do right by that truth.
If you are hyper-aware of your responsibilities, and if you are overwhelmed by how hard you are trying to be good, you don’t need to be reminded to feel shame or guilt. Instead, you need to be reminded that you already are good, you already are pleasing, you already are God’s. This Holy Week, take a break from Catholic guilt, and take a slice of God’s peace instead.
