Throughout the Gospel of Luke, the power of evil is lurking and the heavenly hosts stand ready to go into battle, beginning with the appearance of an army of angels to the shepherds at the birth of Christ. Evil tempts Jesus in the desert. Throughout Luke’s Gospel, Jesus drives out demons. However, the ultimate battle takes place during the Passion of Jesus that we enter into this Holy Week. Evil’s tenacious presence is manifested in Jesus’ agony in the garden, in the betrayal of Judas, in the weakness of the Apostles, in the hostility of the crowds and the leaders of Israel, in Herod and Pilate, and in Peter’s denial. Luke’s Gospel reminds us that the power of evil is never to be underestimated. And yet, through Jesus’ Death and Resurrection, the power of darkness is dispelled.
Reflection/Discussion Questions
- When was a time you experienced darkness in your life?
- How does Jesus’ Death and Resurrection dispel the power of darkness?
Enjoy an Arts & Faith: Lent reflection on Wilhelm Morgner’s Entry of Christ into Jerusalem.
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