RBWords

    We turn a corner in the exhibit and come into what we can see is the last room.  There are exit signs down at the end, but still some important paintings to see.  This part of the Farewell Discourse exhibit is called by some scripture scholars: the "High Priestly Prayer of Jesus."  It will be a challenge to us in many ways. To begin with, we Catholics are not particularly comfortable with long personal prayers said out loud!  We can deal with "non-personal" forms that can take a while, like the rosary, but a long personal prayer by an individual can make us fidget!  This long prayer of Jesus the High Priest may demand some patience!  This can get even more difficult if we hear repetition and wonder, "Didn't he just pray for that?"

 

     We may also find ourselves wondering if the words are Jesus' words or are they the words the artist wants Jesus to say or words from another tradition.  The name, "Jesus Christ," is not likely the way Jesus would have referred to himself when he was alive!  That is a post-resurrection title!  Yet, the words are compelling.  Jesus says that eternal life is in knowing his Father and him.  This is not something beyond the grave, but something in the present.  Difficulties in understanding how the artist tells the story should not blind us to the beauty and meaning of the work in front of us!  We must fight the temptation to give up and head for the exit!AMEN