On this Sunday of the Passion of our Lord Christ, we will reflect on the story of Christ's arrest, betrayal, and crucifixion. We will reflect and discuss the events of the Passion, particularly the actions and reactions of the people...focusing on the idea that much of what they thought, said, or how they reacted had little understanding of what God was up to in the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. We will discuss the idea of God's peace (shalom), and as the closing blessing from our service of Holy Eucharist prays (May the peace of God, which passes all understanding...), that we often do not understand the power and scope of God's peace for the entire world.
Our Scripture passage is found in the Gospel according to Mark. You may find the Scripture lesson by selecting the following link: (Mark 15:1-39).
For continuing study, reflect on these questions (found in the study guide below):
Before reading the Scripture passage for our lesson this week, read the "WHERE..." paragraph in the guide below in order to help you get some additional context for our study. As you read Mark 15:1-39, keep in mind the author's words, "the shadow of Good Friday transforms the light of Palm Sunday..."
Read Mark 11:1-11 and Mark 15:1-39 (note: there is a typo in the study guide, indicating the first part of the Scripture lesson is in chapter 1, but the correct chapter for our study is chapter 11). After reading the Scripture lessons, reflect on the following: what kind of "messiah" or "king" do you think Jesus is, and what were the people expecting...how are these the same and/or different?
After reading the "WHAT..." paragraph, reflect and ask yourself: Would you say Jesus was a king that sought to bring peace, and what kind of peace was he seeking to bring; what would be the price for the type of peace Jesus brought and continues to bring into our lives?
The peace of the Roman empire was purchased with violence, coercion, and a strong-handed rule that kept most people in servitude, yet Jesus seeks to bring God's peace of shalom, where everyone is treated with dignity, respect, and the law of the land is ruled through God's love. After reading the "NOW WHAT..." paragraph below, reflect on what actions in your life and in your community would be necessary to help bring about the vision of God's peace (shalom) in all of our lives.
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