Why are you?

Tuesday of Holy Week
Readings may be found here
 
During these extraordinary days of isolation, all of us have the motive and opportunity to do some soul searching and reflection on matters of faith. The many details of life and work that typically crowd our day and our consciousness have been stripped from us. And truth be told, we are actively searching for insight, consolation, and strength.  
 
I know that “who are you?” is the question we are used to hearing. But today, I would like to think about “why are you?” as our scripture passages point us towards the critical question of our purpose in life. 
 
In a moment and world where life feels so very fragile, Isaiah offers us the model of the faithful servant who knows his calling, his purpose. He must speak the truth of God to the weary. He focuses on this purpose, faithful to the calling in the face of opposition and maltreatment. This is a God-given purpose and so the servant trusts that his purpose is a participation in the Divine plan for the salvation of the people. 
 
There has never been any human being more focused and faithful in His purpose than Jesus Christ. He knows His work, the work of reconciling us and all creation to the Father. He never wavers in His absolute devotion to revealing the Glory of God. Judas, in tragic contrast, does not know the purpose for which God has made him. He is lost in his own ego and self-interest. Peter is more fortunate. While he is confused in this passage and he will go on to make that terrible denial of the Lord, Peter will learn. And by the grace of that same Lord Peter will find his purpose and pursue it, proclaiming the Name of the Lord wven until his own martyrdom at Rome.
 
These are days to consider again the purpose that God has called us to. What difference do and will I make to this world with the gift of life? Will I be another rat in the race or the disciple who takes up the call of the Lord Jesus to participate in His work of love and reconciliation? Why are you? You were made in love, by love, for love.