April 2, Good Friday of the Lord's Passion

Father, into your hands I commend my spirit.--Luke 23:46

Mass readings: Isaiah 52:13-53:12 / Hebrews 4:14-16;5:7-9 / John 18:1-19:42

I AM; I am not

In the Passion narrative, John sets up a contrast between Jesus and the impetuous Peter. Jesus is well aware of who He is: the Son of God. John tells the story this way: ''Jesus, knowing everything that was going to happen to him, went out and said to them, 'Whom are you looking for?' They answered him, 'Jesus the Nazarene.' He said to them, 'I AM.' Judas his betrayer was also with them. When He said to them, 'I AM,' they turned away and fell to the ground.'' Jesus' bold use of the divine name I AM knocks over the arresting party!

But boldness fails impetuous Peter, who engages in swordplay in the garden, only to later quaver in the courtyard and answer the question whether he is a disciple, ''I am not.''

Prayer: Give me the courage, Lord Jesus, to be true to You in every situation.