Jesus said, ‘Remove this cup from me; yet, not what I want, but what you want.’ (Mark 14:36)

When all is going well, it is easy to be good and/or to have faith. The Gospel accounts of Jesus’ passion give us an insight into how difficult this time must have been. Pushed to the limit, it’s far easier to walk away: ‘live to fight another day’. Jesus turns that logic on its head while still exhibiting his humanity. He doesn’t want to go to the cross but realises that his faith and integrity require that of him.

These are vital life lessons to share with our young people. Will I stand up for what I believe in? Will I walk away when the going gets tough? Will I be a person of integrity? Will I have faith in God in the tough times and believe in the reflection: ‘it was then that I carried you’? Our answers to such questions can lead us to the full Easter life.

Wishing you a great week!

Patrick