Week of February 25, 2002
Melanie H.

"And he (Peter) went outside and wept bitterly."
Luke 22:62

I enjoy reading from a most gifted Christian writer named Max Lucado. In the excerpt below he talks about some of the often overlooked attendants at the cross when Christ died.

There was one group in attendance that day whose role was critical. They didn't speak much, but they were there. Few noticed them, but that's not surprising. Their very nature is so silent they are often overlooked. In fact, the gospel writers scarcely gave them a reference. But we know they were there. They had to be. They had a job to do.

Yes, This representation did much more than witness the divine drama; they expressed it. They captured it. They displayed the despair of Peter; they betrayed the guilt of Pilate and unveiled the anguish of Judas. They transmitted John's confusion and translated Mary's compassion.

Their prime role, however, was with that of the Messiah. With utter delicacy and tenderness, they offered relief to His pain and expression to His yearning.

Who am I describing? You may be surprised.

Tears. Those tiny drops of humanity. Those round, wet balls of fluid that tumble from our eyes, creep down our cheeks, and splash on the floor of our hearts. They were there that day. They are always present at such times. They should be, that's their job. They are miniature messengers; on call 24 hours a day to substitute for crippled words. They drip, drop, and pour from the corner of our souls, carrying with them the deepest emotions we possess. They tumble down our faces with announcements that range from the most blissful joy to darkest despair.

The principle is simple; when words are most empty, tears are most apt.

Speak a prayer of thanksgiving to Jesus Christ for
having sacrificed Himself for your benefit. Amen

Contributed by Melanie H.
Published Monday February 25, 2002
Week 13 of Liturgical Year A