The Yes-Man

As it does every spring, our journey towards Resurrection brings us first to the cross. And in this account of that ultimate sacrifice, the Jesus of Luke’s Passion is markedly different from the persona portrayed by the other evangelists. In Mark and Matthew, an agonized, very human Jesus is abandoned and battling despair. In John, a divine Jesus is self-possessed and in total control throughout his ordeal. In contrast, the Jesus of Luke’s gospel is clearly the Son of God become our brother, struggling then triumphing over doubt and fear. In this week’s gospel, our brother Jesus is tested and tormented, but preserves his serenity by humbly surrendering to the will of the Father.