Jesus: A Dialogue with the SaviourI’ve always taken the Holy Pascha week as a time to commemorate the events Christ went through before His Crucifixion, but this year it has really taken on a new meaning for me. Starting off with the retreat, and throughout all the readings this week, Christ has reinforced the concept that we must relive the week with Him, not just sit there and observe. Here is an excerpt from our book club that drives it home.

“He made that twelve should be with Him and that He might send them to preach.” (Mk. 3:14). The first mark of the apostle is to have been with Jesus. The consignment into the mission field is subordinate to this first condition. But it is not enough for the apostles to be close to Jesus. He wants to “have” them with Him. One this is the fact of His simple presence, another thing the fact of being in the hands of Jesus as His possession, as matter, into which He breathes life and shapes it.The servant of the High Priest asks Peter: “Did I not see thee in the garden with Him?” (Jn. 18:26). Was I with Jesus (am I still with Him) in the garden, or on the Mount of Olives?”I will that, where I am, they also whom thou hast given Me may be with Me.” (Jn 17:24). Jesus is speaking of Heaven where His disciples will see His glory. The words, however, are subject to a more general sense. The disciple must be everywhere where the Master is. Am I with Jesus - by reliving these episodes in my soul - there where He was present during His earthly life? Am I with Him in the places and moments where He is present today?

Taken from page 46 (Chapter XII) in Jesus: A Dialogue with the Saviour.