Homily for Tuesday of Holy Week

In the final days of Jesus' life, people responded to Him in different ways. While Judas betrayed Him, the beloved disciple sat close to him, even leaning on his chest. In the opening chapter of the Gospel, the Evangelist describes Jesus as being "upon the chest of the Father," which suggests a close relationship. The beloved disciple seems to have had a similar relationship with Jesus and is an example to follow.

The beloved disciple is not given a name in the Gospel, as we are all invited to identify with him. We can look to him as a model for discipleship and strive to imitate him. We are called to have the same kind of relationship with Jesus as the beloved disciple had, which is why Jesus said, "As the Father has loved me, so I have loved you; remain in my love." We can share in Jesus' special relationship with his Father in heaven.

This is something to reflect on during Holy Week.