Lk 19:41-44
When Jesus had come in sight of the city, he wept over it and said, “If only today you knew the ways of peace! But now they are hidden from your eyes. Yet days will come upon you when your enemies will surround you with barricades and shut you in and press on you from every side. And they will dash you to the ground and your children with you, and leave not a stone within you, for you did not recognize the time and the visitation of your God.”
REFLECTION
On the road from Bethany to Jerusalem, at the middle altitude of the Mount Olivet there is a little chapel called Dominus flevit – The Lord wept. In fact, from its window you can contemplate the whole city of Jerusalem. It is a living commemoration of the Gospel of today.
Like in other moments of his life (Lk 13:34-35), Jesus shows his love for his people and the capital of Israel. His intention of gathering the Jews, like the hen gathers her young under her wings, was frustrated. Truly, Jesus put his full interest in the conversion of Israel. This day, in his solemn entrance in the city, is the final opportunity to recognize its visit. The crowd acclaim Jesus as Messiah, but the heads of the people, once again, reject him. His success will increase their jealousy and opposition. Therefore Jesus announces once more the future destruction of the city under Roman army some years later.
Can we think sometimes that Jesus cries over his Church? Can we share the feelings of his Heart? Do we find in the history of the Christian community moments of true punishment after grave infidelities? The Gospel invites us to reflect.
CLARETIAN COMMUNICATIONS FOUNDATION, INC.
8 Mayumi Street, U.P. Village, Diliman, 1101 Quezon City, Philippines
Tel.: (02) 921-3984 • 922-00-11 • 921-28-59 Fax: (02) 921-6205, 927-7429
Bookstore: (02) 924-6835
Email: ccfi@claretianpublications.com / cci@claret.org
Website: www.claretianpublications.com
