First Reading: (Isaiah 50:4–9)
Responsorial Psalm: (Psalm 69)
Response:
“In your great mercy, answer me, O God, in the time of your favor.”
Gospel: (Matthew 26:14–25)
(Judas’ betrayal and the preparation for the Passion of Christ)
Reflection:
No one enjoys suffering, especially innocent suffering. When we suffer because of our own actions, we can at least understand why. But when we are falsely accused, misunderstood, or hurt for no reason, it cuts deeper.
Our natural reaction is to:
Defend ourselves loudly
Prove our innocence
Return insult for insult
Curse those who hurt us
But today’s first reading presents a different response-a divine response.
The Tongue of a Disciple
The prophet describes a servant who suffers unjustly, yet responds not with anger, but with discipline and trust in God:
He does not rebel
He does not retaliate
He does not curse
He remains silent or prayerful
This is the tongue of Christ.
Christ as the Perfect Example
Think of Jesus:
He was insulted
Beaten
Spat upon
Crucified
Yet what did He say?
“Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.”
No curses.
No revenge.
Only prayer and mercy.
Where Does This Strength Come From?
Not from weakness.
Not from lack of pain.
It comes from trust in God.
As Isaiah says:
“The Lord God helps me”
“He who vindicates me is near”
The servant endures because he knows:
God defends the innocent.
Application to Our Lives
When people:
Misjudge us
Accuse us falsely you
Speak against us
Ask yourself:
Do I respond with anger?
Do I repay evil for evil?
Or do I respond like Christ?
Spiritual Instruction
We are called to:
Return insult with blessing
Replace curses with prayer
Trust God as our defender
As Jesus teaches:
“Pray for your enemies and do good to those who hate you.”
Key Insight
We remain calm not because:
We feel no pain
We are weak
But because:
We know God is fighting for us.
Amen.
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