Canon Michael's reflection for Saturday of the 5th Week of Lent
The scene is now set for the events of Holy Week. In today's Gospel, we hear a prophecy from Caiaphas the High priest: "it is better for one man to die for the people." Jesus does indeed die for all the people of every time and place. Jesus is the redeemer of the world.
Caiaphas is a key figure in the death of Jesus. He came from a High priestly family. His father-in-law Annas had been High priest before him and would be high priest again. I wonder did John the Baptist's family know him? Zechariah was of the priestly tribe, perhaps they were related? All supposition - but archaeologists are pretty sure where the house of Caiaphas was in Jerusalem. The church of St Peter in Gallicantu is on the site. The Assumption sisters have their convent there. There are ancient caverns below the church. Is it possible that Jesus was imprisoned there during the night of Holy Thursday? Certainly there are some first century steps leading up from the Kidron valley to Ciaaphas' house, which can be seen today in the church grounds. On Holy Thursday night, a brazier is lit at the top of the steps by a statue of St Peter to recall his denial that he ever knew Jesus. All this is just to help set the scene for Holy week.
As we are all in isolation may we feel the closeness of Christ, who knows our longing to be close to him in church and He will bless us as we remember the saving events of our Faith.
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