Only this I want…
In a recent interview for ministry within the church, I was asked what did Jesus represent to me. I paused as I recalled a similar question in which I did not answer well. As a previous fitness instructor, I had been asked what a local community fitness center represented to me. In my ignorance, I responded, “A gym.” “Incorrect!” the interviewer quickly replied. “It’s a community!” she followed. I was taken aback because I had honestly never viewed a fitness center this way. Needless to say, I did get the job. LOL. And, in time, I realized what she meant by, “a community.”
However, in my response to the ministry interview I responded confidently, “Jesus is My Rock, My Refuge, and My Redeemer.” In a Catholic Hymn by artist Dan Schutte, we hear the words, “Only this I want, but to know the Lord, and to bear His cross, so to where the crown He wore.” (Dan Schutte)
It is these simple statements in a hymn which captivate my whole heart and purely summarizes my love for Christ. As I matured, I realized the significance of the lyrics. In truth, Christ’s love was/is all I ever wanted, nothing more. But, could I bear His cross as he bore it for me and my sins? Could I wear the crown He wore?
As a practice of developing a deeper understanding and relationship with Christ, I imagine myself in His position. Figuratively speaking, this practice helps me gain a new perspective on the depth of His love for us. I ponder; how did it feel to carry the weight of the cross? How did he feel as the thorns pierced His skin? Then, I further wonder, would I have believed Jesus then? Or, would I have been among the crowd to shout, “Crucify Him!” Reality would lead me to believe that I would have chosen the latter, because I am weak.
Yet, we are all weak. But, He loves us still, despite our ignorance and stubbornness. Then, as He neared His final breath, He remarks, “Father forgive them, for they know not what they do.”
How moving! I truly ponder this statement daily. It moves me to the depth of my soul. In His last words, I was taught so much about true forgiveness and to believe that I too am forgiven.
Now I ask myself, “Do I love and forgive as Jesus does?” You’ll be happy to know that I am a work in progress, so at times I do practice this well. However, I generally miss the mark with consistency. Nonetheless, I am persistent in my pursuit for Christ’s Kingdom. Therefore, as I grow weary in my practices, I simply take a short respite through meditation and silence to then hop back on the train of Truth, Love, Compassion, and Forgiveness.
Suggestion: I invite you to retreat to prayer, meditation, adoration, and silence as you continue your journey with Our Lord, Our Savior, Our Redeemer. So, you may be reenergized and ready for whatever comes your way.
Prayer: On this somber day of Good Friday, may I never forget the depth of Your Love for us. Help me to remain consistent on my journey to You. May your words guide my daily conduct. May I Love others as You love us, so as to share the goodness of You. Amen. By Isabel Anderson
Love thy neighbor as thyself 