April 6, 2007
(Good Friday)
Now
By The Very Rev. Terry White, Dean
Isaiah 52:13-53:12 • Psalm 22
• Hebrews 10:16-25 or 4:14-16; 5:7-9
• John 18:1-19:42
(From
The Lectionary Page)
The Triduum Sacrum, Three Holy Days continue. The collects from Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, and Holy Saturday do not end exactly as do collects throughout the rest of the year. One word is inserted, the word "now" - who now lives and reigns. ... I have searched liturgical commentaries and have not found an explanation for the insertion of this single word, but I know how I am struck when I pray these collects. "Now" assures me that in these liturgical days when darkness seems to conquer, and evil is manifested in many ways, be not afraid, for God has the final say. Especially on this day of sorrow, when we watch as Jesus endures betrayal and torture, derision and savagery, and as we consider our own sinfulness, the promise of the Resurrection beckons us onward through the cross to the empty tomb.
The liturgy for this day concludes: Lord Jesus Christ, son of the living God, we pray you to set your passion, cross, and death, between your judgment and our souls, now and in the hour of our death. Give mercy and grace to the living; pardon and rest to the dead; to your holy Church peace and concord; and to us sinners everlasting life and glory; for with the Father and the Holy Spirit you live and reign, one God, now and for ever. Amen.
Now.
