The 'goodness' of this Friday

Much has been said about what is ‘good’ about Good Friday.  I believe we each can personalize the ‘good’ for what it means to us.  For me the ‘goodness’ of this day is to be able to reflect on Jesus’ compassion in His passion in a deeper way than I usually do when meditating on the Sorrowful Mysteries of the Rosary.

We can begin with His agony in the garden; “My soul is sorrowful even to death.” [Matthew 26:38, Mark 14:34, Luke 22:44].  Despite His sorrow and distress, He was very patient with Peter, James, and John, whom He had asked to pray with Him, but they couldn’t stay awake.  I feel this same patience from Christ when I, too, fall asleep (or let my mind wander) when in prayer.

Jesus also showed compassion for Judas.  Jesus addressed him as “friend” even as Judas kissed Him and turned Him over to the authorities [Matthew 26:50].  Luke even records that Jesus’ compassion extended to healing the ear of a person (Malchus) that a disciple (Peter) cut off with a sword [Luke 22:51].  This particular episode is related in all four Gospels, but only the Gospel of John identifies both the servant and the disciple [John 18:10-11].

Then after enduring an all-night kangaroo court, whipping, mockery and abuse, Jesus was led out to be crucified.  In spite of His suffering, He continued to offer compassion.  He comforted His Mother with a gentle look.  He knew she suffered fully in His pain. Jesus must have smiled at Simon of Cyrene as he took the weight of the cross off of Him [Matthew 27:32, Mark 15:21, Luke 23:26].  What a gracious gift He gave to Veronica, who was courageous enough to maneuver around the centurions to wipe Jesus’ bloody face.  He actually stopped and spoke to the women of Jerusalem [Mark 15:41, Luke 23:27-30].  I wonder if the centurions thought they were losing control at this time.  Maybe, in reality, they were never in control.

Even while He was suffocating on the cross, He endured the surging pain to lift Himself enough to speak forgiveness and care for others. “Forgive them Father they know not what they do.” [Luke 23:34]. “Today you will be with me in Paradise.” [Luke 23:43]. “Woman, behold, your son. Behold, your mother.” [John 19:26-27].

Are we compassionate when we’re tired, hungry or thirsty?  Do we have patience for those who don’t understand?  Do we forgive our betrayers immediately?  Do we forgive those who mock us and abuse us?  Do we forgive those who slander us or kill our reputation?  Do we appreciate large and small favors, gifts and help from others as Jesus acknowledged Simon and Veronica?  Do we give comfort to others in distress?  Can we accompany others who are suffering?  Are we present to their grieving or their dying?

Lord, help us to be compassionate as You are compassionate.  Even in Your ultimate sacrifice of giving Your life for our sake, You showed us that mercy to others is still what God requires.