We Are With Him

“Keep watch with me!”

One of the more poignant requests of Jesus, made to His apostles in the Garden of Gethsemane after what would be His “Last Supper” with them that first Holy Thursday.

Jesus desired the company of His friends as He anticipated His Passion during what we call His “Agony in the Garden.”

Even the Son of God, true man as well, wanted friends around Him as He began that hour of severe trial and suffering.

“Keep watch with me!”

“Stay awake with me!”

“Keep me company!”

That touching plea from Our Lord is also addressed to us!  He wants our presence!  He wants us near Him!

One of the ways we Catholics answer Jesus with a “yes” to that request is through our faithful participation in the solemn ceremonies of these sacred days.

We are with Him at His Last Supper as we pray at the beautiful evening Mass of Holy Thursday.

Then we are invited to be near Him at the Altar of Repose, savoring His Real Presence in the Most Blessed Sacrament.

“We are there when they crucified my Lord” as we pray at the Liturgy of the Lord’s Passion on Good Friday afternoon, listening to His Gospel, venerating His cross, receiving Him in Holy Communion.

On Holy Saturday evening we “can’t wait” for the morning, and so keep watch at the Easter vigil, letting the light of the paschal candle pierce the darkness, recalling our own baptism, rejoicing as new members enter the family of the Church.

We’re back Easter Sunday morning, the new life and light of Spring pushing back the grayness of Winter, as we chant the “alleluias” and receive our Lord in the Eucharist.

We’re with “family” these high holy days, God’s family, the Church, having RSVP’d the invitation of Jesus, “Keep watch with me!”

A grace-filled Holy Week!