Monday of Holy Week
John 12:1-11
The patience of God and our response

As we enter into the depths of Holy Week, we are invited into the home of Lazarus, Martha, and Mary. Mary, who has encountered the love of Christ, stands before us as a witness of gratitude and humility. She does not dwell in guilt but rejoices in the mercy she has received. She sees the world through the lens of forgiveness, and like Mary, we are called to recognise the immense gift of God’s mercy.

This week, we also reflect on the patience of Jesus—especially towards Judas. Knowing of his betrayal, Jesus does not expose or condemn him but instead extends patience and love, hoping for his conversion. How often do we test God’s patience with our sins, our doubts, and our failures? Yet, like the father in the parable of the prodigal son, God continues to wait, arms open, always ready to welcome us home. When we contemplate this mystery of divine patience, our hearts should echo a simple but profound prayer: Thank You, Lord.

Judas is a man consumed by material concerns. Do we sometimes fall into the same trap, allowing our worries about finances and worldly possessions to overshadow our faith? Do we calculate and measure everything—even our devotion to God—through the lens of personal gain? Holy Week is a time for honest self-examination.

Finally, let us turn our hearts to the poor. True faith must be expressed in action. This Easter, let us perform concrete acts of love—feeding the hungry, assisting the elderly, and comforting the lonely. May our faith come alive through charity. May this Holy Week be a time of grace.

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Cum Approbatione Ecclesiastica 2025