Incomparable Marathon Runner

The words of the Evangelist Luke echo powerfully in our hearts today: “Jesus went on his way to Jerusalem” (Lk 19:28).

Many of us probably follow the competition of athletes with interest. We remember images from bicycle races, where a group of cyclists comes to the front of the peloton, setting the pace and pulling the rest behind them. It is similar in time trials or marathons - someone sets the rhythm, pulling others to the effort.

For us Christians, the Son of God, Jesus Christ, is just such an Incomparable Marathon Runner in this special time of Holy Week. He marches resolutely forward, towards Jerusalem, mobilizing us all to run spiritually, to participate in these most important competitions, the stakes of which are the prize of the Kingdom of Heaven. He does not want this prize only for himself – he lovingly invites his disciples to accompany him on this path and also take their place on the podium of eternal life.

What is more, Christ becomes for us a Master and Coach who patiently explains the rules of spiritual combat and shows the way to victory, to life in fullness with God. If we listen with faith to His instructions, which He left us in the Holy Scriptures, we will discover the truth about life and salvation, as He promised us. There is one condition, but it is fundamental: we must trust Him completely and allow ourselves to be led through the complexities of our lives. Our task is to fulfill everything according to His commandments, which are signposts on the paths of faith.

Our Lord Jesus Christ enters Jerusalem on a humble donkey, yet as a true King and Conqueror. The crowds cheer Him and pay Him homage as the Conqueror.

Let us look deep into our hearts and see how much we resemble those people of centuries ago who enthusiastically shouted to welcome the Messiah. We too often find it easy to adore our Master, to sing His praises in our churches. We gather with joy to bless the food for the festive table on Holy Saturday.

On the other hand, how often do we experience the difficulty of taking up our daily cross, how reluctant we are to be a merciful Simon of Cyrene who helps to bear the burden of another, or a courageous Veronica who wipes the face of the weary. It is easy to stand in a group of observers and encourage others in their struggles, but putting effort into systematic spiritual training, making specific sacrifices, seems too difficult, the bar is set too high. Not all of us even attempt a high jump in the spiritual life.

Let us remember the words of the Psalmist: "The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him and is saved; therefore my heart rejoices, and with my song I will praise him" (Ps 28:7).

True peace of mind, brothers and sisters, can only be achieved with Jesus Christ and on His principles. If we rely only on our own strength and limited human wisdom, we will not win in the struggle against evil and adversity. Therefore, in this Holy Week, let us allow Jesus to lead us to true victory, to eternal life. Amen.