Saturday-Monday, 03.17-9.13

The readings from Saturday, Sunday, and Monday are wonderfully rich with fruitful intersections. Jesus repeatedly defends himself against doubters; Susanna and the adulterous woman prompt us to question the wonderful yields of a trusting relationship with God; and the books of Jeremiah and Philippians challenge the reader to reflect in order to better understand our own choices and destiny.

I am struck by a common strength of spirit in these passages, for despite numerous obstacles, the followers of Christ and Christ himself persevere, only to find that in the process, the followers have been transformed into more spiritual and peaceful people. I find comfort in the idea that while the Lord is a "searcher of mind and heart" (JER 11:18-20), yet Christ also says that while "you judge by appearances...I do not judge anyone" (JN 8:12-20). How wonderful would it be to feel completely open and vulnerable to those we love and know that despite seeing the very, very worst and most shameful parts of ourselves, we are loved? It makes me think of one of my favorite Yeats quotes: "the tragedy of sexual intercourse is the perpetual virginity of the soul." While the sexual reference may initially distract us in a spiritual conversation, at the heart of this quote and these verses is a sense of yearning to be understood and fully known, then completely and utterly accepted. In fact, God uses the sexuality of Susanna and the adulterous woman to transform sexual sin and impurity--human weakness and corruption--into a gateway for a stronger relationship with Him; nothing can stand in God's way as He continues to build relationships with His children.

Rev. Stephen Spahn, S.J. writes in the Georgetown Lenten reflection for Sunday that the adulterous woman's decision to remain with Jesus after her persecutors have left is a remarkable act. She must have felt compelled and drawn towards Christ in some way--otherwise she most assuredly would have fled the scene of her near-death experience. I am awed by the strength of this woman and of Susanna to be publicly humiliated and judged, then held up and strengthened and cleansed by peace that comes only from God.

Please strengthen my spirit, Lord, and allow me to think and care less about the judgment of others. Let me work to make You, before all others, proud.

Amen.