Negaturus | Deny me

Jesus said to him, “Most certainly I tell you that you today, even this night, before the rooster crows twice, you will deny me three times.” - Mark 14: 30

Photo by Magda Ehlers on Pexels.com

The Mount of Olives reminds us of the passion, death and suffering of Jesus, moreover, it reminds us of Peter's very painful denial. As God, Jesus said what would actually happen in that moment, but apostle Peter facing fear, panic and despair, said that he would defend Jesus to the last drop of his blood. 

All Christians knew that the real fact happened. None of Jesus' disciples, including Peter, faithfully followed the way of the cross until Jesus was crucified.  From Peter's attitude in this reading, we are all invited not to rely too much on our own strength when dealing with such a formidable problem. As followers of Christ, we must surrender to God's will and ask for His guidance so that we don't go astray in our confusion. No matter how heavy the problem we face, we will be able to face and overcome it, if we believe in God.

Besides Peter who was trembling with fear but trying to be strong before the agony in Mount Olive, Jesus remained calm. Even though from the beginning He knew that there would be a cross and suffering waiting for Him at Calvary. His nature as a human makes Him very afraid and trembling, but He remains calm waiting for the suffering of the cross. 

One thing we should imitate is that Jesus never forgot to pray in any situation. In great fear and suffering, Jesus completely surrendered to the will of the Father. It is this surrender and total trust to God, that then saved us human from the mire of sin. 

So far, in the midst of our busy daily activities, let's look briefly at the cross of Jesus, the source of strength in suffering.

Reflection on Mark 14:22-52 by Sr Yanti Purnawati SFSC

(Listen to the Podcast here)