In the Spirit of Feria II after the VI Sunday after Pentecost
The Church’s liturgical calendar, particularly the season after Pentecost, immerses the faithful in the fullness of the Christian mystery, emphasizing our sanctification through Christ’s redemptive work. This period invites deeper contemplation of the scriptures, drawing us closer to the heart of the Paschal Mystery. The readings for Feria II after the VI Sunday after Pentecost—Hebrews 9:11-15 and John 19:30-35—provide profound insights into the sacrificial love of Christ and its implications for our salvation.
Hebrews 9:11-15: The Eternal Redemption through Christ’s Sacrifice
“But Christ being come an high priest of good things to come, by a greater and more perfect tabernacle, not made with hands, that is to say, not of this building; Neither by the blood of goats and calves, but by his own blood he entered in once into the holy place, having obtained eternal redemption for us.” (Hebrews 9:11-12)
Saint John Chrysostom reflects on this passage by emphasizing Christ’s unique role as both priest and victim. He notes that the Old Testament sacrifices were but shadows and types, insufficient for true redemption. Only Christ, the true High Priest, could enter the heavenly sanctuary with His own blood, securing eternal redemption. Chrysostom writes, “He offered what no other had offered, He offered Himself. This sacrifice was not only a full expiation, but also a perfect purification, freeing us from sin’s defilement” (Homilies on Hebrews).
John 19:30-35: The Completion of Christ’s Sacrifice
“When Jesus therefore had received the vinegar, he said, It is finished: and he bowed his head, and gave up the ghost… But one of the soldiers with a spear pierced his side, and forthwith came there out blood and water.” (John 19:30, 34)
Saint Augustine reflects on the moment of Christ’s death as the consummation of His earthly mission. His declaration, “It is finished,” signifies the completion of the work of redemption. Augustine elucidates, “Here was the end of all foreshadowings, the accomplishment of all prophecy, the consummation of the eternal covenant” (Tractates on the Gospel of John).
The blood and water flowing from Christ’s side hold deep sacramental symbolism. The Fathers, particularly Saint Ambrose, see in this a representation of the Church’s sacraments, birthed from the side of Christ as Eve was from Adam. Ambrose remarks, “The water signifies baptism, the blood the Holy Eucharist. The Church is born from the sacraments which flow from the side of Christ” (On the Mysteries).
Contemplation in the Light of the Liturgical Season
In the spirit of the Feria II after the VI Sunday after Pentecost, the Church encourages the faithful to meditate on these readings, recognizing the profound love and ultimate sacrifice of Christ. The season after Pentecost is a time of growth and sanctification, much like the green vestments symbolize life and hope.
Saint Gregory the Great urges us to respond to this great gift of redemption with a life of virtue and devotion. He writes, “Let us then hasten to our Redeemer, the fountain of life. Let us embrace the sacraments He has given us, and live in a manner worthy of the grace we have received” (Homilies on the Gospels).
As we reflect on Hebrews 9:11-15 and John 19:30-35, let us remember that our redemption was purchased at a great price. We are called to live in the reality of this redemption, continually turning to the sacraments for grace and strength, and striving to embody the virtues of Christ in our daily lives.
Conclusion
The readings of this liturgical day draw us into the heart of the mystery of our salvation. Through the sacrificial love of Christ, we are given eternal redemption and the means of sanctification. Let us, therefore, embrace this gift with gratitude, allowing it to transform our lives, and bringing us ever closer to our Savior.
In the words of Saint Leo the Great, “Christian, remember your dignity… do not forget that you have been rescued from the power of darkness and brought into the light of God’s Kingdom” (Sermon on the Nativity). May this reflection deepen our appreciation of Christ’s sacrifice and inspire us to live faithfully in His love.