04/04/ 2022

The story of Susannah is not accepted as a God's revelation by all who use the Old Testament. Biblical scholars are able to date the composition to the second century before the birth of our Lord although the events belong to the time of the  Babylonian captivity. Reading scripture becomes extrememly difficult even without the difficulties that the mind gets clustered with when considering text and historical details.

The story's core is a revelation and warning for us and our leaders. Accusation of sin in others is to be well avoided especially by leaders who have in their arrogance ignored the teaching of Christ and misled their charges. The cry " I am innocent of this man's death" is not heard at Jesus trial.  "Crucify him, crucify him" is the voice of the people. He was deserted by all even those who shortly before, had been jostling for a position in his Kingdom. 

Pilate is the one who cannot see the guilt attributed to Jesus by his accusers but he was the only one who could give a lawful sentence of death. Pilate judged by human standards but the High Priests who were the keeper of the Law, the examplar of God's revelation to his people pressured him, again by human standards "No friend of Caesar!" to give the verdict that their jealousy and malice demanded.

In the trial that we will all undergo we can be sure that the verdict will be perfect in Justice, Love and Mercy for it is Father, Son and Holy Spirit who examines us. We can only influence that verdict by being in our lives  true to the Word that is Jesus, our perfect teacher and redeemer,

Dear Lord help me to be ready for my death and judgement. Let my thoughts and words and deeds be without sin and responsive to "the one who sent you". May Mary and all you saints continue to obtain graces for us thy children on earth and for the Holy Souls still waiting for your mercy.