The Forgiveness of Sinners - Bishop Barron Sunday Sermon

Summary

In this Palm Sunday reflection, the speaker explores the unique elements in St. Luke's Passion narrative, focusing on forgiveness. The first part highlights the dialogue between Jesus and the two criminals on the cross, with one embracing repentance and admitting sin, symbolizing the path to salvation. The second part emphasizes Jesus' words, 'Father, forgive them, they know not what they do,' showing God's response to human sin as one of forgiveness, not anger. The reflection calls on us to admit our own sins, seek forgiveness, and trust in God's mercy, particularly during Holy Week.

Takeaways

• 😀 Palm Sunday, also known as Passion Sunday, marks the end of the Lenten journey, where the Passion narrative is read from the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, or Luke.
• 😀 St. Luke’s account of the Passion includes a unique dialogue between Jesus and the two criminals crucified alongside Him, highlighting themes of repentance and forgiveness.
• 😀 Only in St. Luke’s Gospel is the ‘good thief’ Dismas introduced, who admits his guilt and asks Jesus to remember him when He comes into His kingdom.
• 😀 A key message of the Passion narrative is that salvation begins with admitting one’s sins and accepting God’s mercy, as demonstrated by Dismas.
• 😀 Contrition, the recognition of one’s sinfulness, is essential for forgiveness. It is not enough to make excuses or blame others for our wrongdoings.
• 😀 Jesus’s response to Dismas, ‘Today you will be with me in Paradise,’ emphasizes that even at the end of a sinful life, repentance can lead to salvation.
• 😀 The use of Jesus's first name by Dismas, ‘Jesus, remember me,’ reflects a deep intimacy and recognition of Jesus as both Savior and friend.
• 😀 In the Passion, Jesus says, ‘Father, forgive them, they know not what they do,’ demonstrating that forgiveness is a central theme of the Gospel, even in the face of human sin.
• 😀 Jesus’s words from the cross reveal the divine nature of forgiveness, where human sin, resistance to God, is met with God’s mercy rather than retribution.
• 😀 Christianity’s uniqueness lies in its portrayal of God’s unconditional forgiveness, as shown in the Passion where all human sin meets divine mercy.
• 😀 The Passion narrative encourages us to follow the example of Dismas by admitting our sins, seeking God’s forgiveness, and trusting in His mercy, even when we feel unworthy.

Q & A

What is the significance of Palm Sunday, also known as Passion Sunday, in the Christian liturgical calendar?

Palm Sunday marks the beginning of Holy Week and commemorates Jesus' triumphal entry into Jerusalem. It is also called Passion Sunday because the Passion narrative from the Gospel is read, recounting the events of Jesus' crucifixion and death.

Why does the homily emphasize the elements that are unique to Luke’s Gospel on Palm Sunday?

The homily highlights elements unique to Luke’s account to provide deeper insight into the specific themes of forgiveness and salvation that Luke presents. By focusing on these unique aspects, the preacher offers a clearer understanding of God's mercy.

What role does the dialogue between Jesus and the two criminals play in understanding forgiveness in the Passion narrative?

The dialogue illustrates two different responses to sin: one criminal is filled with anger and bitterness, while the other, Dismas, admits his guilt and asks Jesus for mercy. This contrast shows the importance of acknowledging sin for forgiveness to be granted.

What is the significance of Dismas' words, 'Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom'?

Dismas' words represent an act of humility and repentance. Despite his past wrongs, he asks Jesus for mercy, acknowledging that he is unworthy but still hopes for forgiveness and salvation. This reflects the Christian ideal of seeking divine mercy despite one’s sins.

How does the homily address the idea of self-exculpation in modern culture?

The homily criticizes the modern tendency to avoid admitting sin by shifting the blame to external factors, such as society or personal circumstances. It stresses that true forgiveness begins with acknowledging one's own wrongdoings, rather than self-justification.

What does the Latin word 'contritio' mean, and how does it relate to receiving forgiveness in Christianity?

'Contritio' means being crushed or broken, symbolizing the profound sorrow for sin that is necessary for receiving forgiveness. Without genuine contrition, one cannot fully open their heart to God’s mercy, as forgiveness flows from a humble and repentant spirit.

Why does the homily focus on Jesus’ words, 'Father, forgive them, they know not what they do'?

This line highlights the depth of Jesus’ forgiveness, even towards those who crucified Him. It reveals that despite human sin and resistance, God responds with love and mercy. This is the core of Christianity—God’s forgiveness is freely given, even to those who sin against Him.

What does the preacher mean when they say that the death of Jesus represents the meeting of human sin and God?

The preacher suggests that the crucifixion is not just the death of a good man but the central moment in human history where human sin meets the divine. In this meeting, God responds not with retribution, but with forgiveness, which is the foundation of the Christian faith.

How is forgiveness portrayed differently in the Passion narrative compared to other religious teachings?

In the Passion narrative, forgiveness is shown as a free gift from God, without conditions or revenge. Unlike other traditions that may emphasize justice or retribution, Christianity teaches that God’s response to human sin is always mercy and forgiveness, even in the face of great wrongs.

What is the connection between the words 'Shalom' from the risen Jesus and the theme of forgiveness?

The word 'Shalom' (peace) spoken by the risen Jesus to His disciples underscores the peace that comes from forgiveness. Despite their betrayal and abandonment, Jesus offers peace, signifying that His death and resurrection have made forgiveness possible for all who repent.