APPROACH IN CONFIDENCE

The author of Hebrews proclaims to us on this Good Friday that we are to approach the throne of grace with confidence. Today is Good Friday — good because Jesus has done something good for us. He has died for our sins and now we  have access to the throne of grace — the cross. What seems a tragic and ignominious event is, in fact, life giving and beautiful. The author tells us that Christ offered prayers in tears and loud cries. As we reflect on the Gospel of the Passion today, we see this displayed ultimately on the cross as Jesus cried out to God. His heart was broken out of love – because no one would accept His offering of the love of God. He was the Son of God and  learned His obedience to the Father through suffering. This obedience is rewarded by God who never abandons His people, even though it seems like this at times. “God has said the final word,” says St. John of the Cross, “He has nothing else to say.” Jesus, the Word made Flesh, has done all He could. Now it is up to us to accept and approach the throne to receive mercy and help.

We are to be confident. St. John, the evangelist, proclaims this great gift of confidence in his letters. We are children of God, thanks to Jesus who has paved the way for us. I am reminded of the Little Flower, St. Therese of Lisieux, who had an incredible confidence in the Father. She would not think twice in running to the Father whenever she had committed even a mortal sin. Of course, this confidence was always with her as a small child and never left her.

Let us be bold in approaching the Father. He has shown us great love and this is the love we celebrate this Friday. God is good. Today is Good Friday. Fr. Brian Steele, MGL

 

Reflection Question:

Am I confident in the Lord’s mercy and love?

 

Lord, I believe that You have died on the cross for me. Give me the confidence I need to approach Your throne of grace and accept what You have done for me. Amen.

 

St. Mareas, pray for us.