Lent Day 39
Friday; April 18, 2014
The Scapegoat and Scapegoating
"Today the primary human problem, the core issue that defeats human history, is both revealed and resolved. It is indeed a “good” Friday. The central issue at work is the human inclination to kill others, in any multitude of ways, instead of dying ourselves— to our own illusions, pretenses, narcissism, and self-defeating behaviors. Jesus dies “for” us not in the sense of “in place of” but “in solidarity with.” The first is merely a heavenly transaction of sorts; the second is a transformation of our very soul and the trajectory of history.”
We worship the ultimate scapegoat, Jesus. But, we are often finding our own scapegoats instead of focusing on ourselves. The problem is often (always) outside of us instead of with us.
"Whenever you see an image of the crucified Jesus, know that it is the clear and central message unveiled. It reveals what humanity is doing to itself and to one another. Don’t lessen its meaning by making it merely into a mechanical transaction whereby Jesus pays some “price” to God or the devil. The only price paid is to the intransigent human soul— so it can see!”
Remember that nothing changed in heaven when Jesus was crucified, but everything potentially changed on earth. God was always loving and gracious. But now, as a result of Jesus, we can approach the Most Holy Place to receive mercy and favor. Hebrews 4:16
Quotes from Rohr, Richard (2010-12-27). Wondrous Encounters: Scripture for Lent (p. 137). St. Anthony Messenger Press. Kindle Edition.
