“He endured the cross, heedless of its shame.” —Hebrews 12:2
The translation of Hebrews 12:2 for Sunday’s second Mass reading says that Jesus “despised the shame” of the cross (see Heb 12:2). Yet instead of shunning the cross, Jesus embraced it. Why would Jesus embrace something He despised? He despised sin, but for our sake He became sin (2 Cor 5:21). Jesus had a baptism of crucifixion to receive, and He was in “anguish” (Lk 12:50). Nonetheless, out of love for us sinners, Jesus hastened to come to our aid (Ps 40:14). His love for us sinful, rebellious people impelled Him to come and save us (2 Cor 5:14).
Though despising the shame, Jesus was willing to be considered a criminal, even a sinner (Jn 9:24). To be crucified was a shameful death reserved for criminals. Yet Jesus, the spotless Lamb of God, endured the shame of the cross, out of unfathomable love for sinful humanity (see Rm 5:8).
The cross of Christ is a scandal and a shame. You may be faced with a choice of compromising your faith to avoid causing a shameful division in your family (Lk 12:51). Alternatively, you can choose to keep your eyes fixed on Jesus (Heb 12:2) and stand firm in your faith, even enduring persecution as Jeremiah and Jesus did (Jer 38:6). Would you keep your eyes fixed on Jesus (Heb 12:2), even if it meant division, persecution, and shame?
PRAYER: Father, give me the grace to be able constantly to look to You, that I may be radiant with joy and my face may not blush with shame (Ps 34:6).
PROMISE: “He stooped toward me and heard my cry. He drew me out of the pit of destruction, out of the mud of the swamp.” —Ps 40:2-3
PRAISE: Praise You, risen Jesus! You welcome those who trust in You. All praise to You forever!
Reference: This teaching was submitted by a member of the editorial team of Fr Al Laury’s Presentation Ministries, who, in accord with the Code of Canon Law, have been granted the Nihil Obstat (Church’s permission & Blessing) for the publication of these reflections. For the full Readings in English and Maltese and other reflections please go to: https:thewordonsunday.blogspot.com OR access it through our Facebook page, “The Word on Sunday”.
John Portelli
