Hope amidst suffering

Abstract

The passion narratives which form the longest section in each gospel, are not just a historical event that took place over two thousand years ago; they are also the fulfillment of God’s plan for salvation foretold in the Old Testament; the ultimate expression of the Son’s obedience which he maintained till the end (Jn 19:30); the Father’s “command” to the Son to lay down his life (Jn 10:18); the “cup” he had to drink (Jn 18:11); and the “hour” during which he was distressed (Jn 12:27). Ultimately, they are the last mode of revelation: “When you have lifted up the Son of man, then you will know that I am he, and that I do nothing on my own authority but speak thus as the Father taught me” (Jn 8:28).