The Blood and the Water
JESUS INVITES US TO STAND BY HIM
Since it was preparation day, in order that the bodies might not remain on the cross on the sabbath,
for the sabbath day of that week was a solemn one, the Jews asked Pilate that their legs be broken
and they be taken down. So the soldiers came and broke the legs of the first and then of the other one who was crucified with Jesus.
But when they came to Jesus and saw that he was already dead, they did not break his legs, but one soldier thrust his lance into his side, and immediately blood and water flowed out. An eyewitness has testified, and his testimony is true; he knows that he is speaking the truth, so that you also may come to believe.
For this happened so that the Scripture passage might be fulfilled:
Not a bone of it will be broken.
And again another passage says:
They will look upon him whom they have pierced.
Reflection: Jesus’ Love for Humanity
When the soldier thrust his lance into Jesus, he did it at Jesus’ side. How beautifully poignant is this? We are meant to be by Jesus’ side to receive His blood and water. We are meant to stand side-by-side next to Him to receive His mercy, sacrifice, and renewal. A moment after experiencing the worst cruelty of humanity, Jesus lovingly sends an invitation for each of us to stand with Him.
Lord, please help me accept this invitation to stand by your side today.
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