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The Gospel records the terrible predictions of our di
vine Lord concerning the Jews who later will seek Him
and shall not find Him. It is time for the true disciples,
if they really thirst after justice and truth, to approach
the divine Master. He is prepared to pour out upon
their souls the life-giving waters of grace.
In the Collect the Church prays that the Lord may
give to the fast of her children sanctifying efficacy, and
grant to all sinners full pardon. In the Secret she
begs that God, having regard to the divine Victim
offered to Him, may deign to effect the purification
of souls. In the Postcommunion she asks that through
the receiving of the adorable Sacrament of the altar
all may be restored to health of soul.
In the sung parts of the Mass, the passages from the
psalms echo for us the dispositions of our Lord as the
time of His bitter Passion drew near. Whilst His per
secutors are preparing to strike Him, He appeals to
His heavenly Father s compassion (INTROIT), He in
vokes the divine assistance which will deliver Him
from danger
the Lord to
(GRADUAL). In the Offertory He prays
turn and to deliver Him and in the
;
Communion He renders homage to the power of the Lord,
He is indeed the King of glory. Let us observe that
in these circumstances our Lord puts Himself in the place
of sinners, as if He alone were the debtor to the justice
of God. He takes upon Himself all our sins, our
miseries, our weaknesses, in order to blot them out, to
comfort and to strengthen us.
In the PRAYER OVER THE PEOPLE the priest implores
of God the grace of salvation and strength, for all the
faithful that they may henceforth apply themselves
to good works, and thus procure the protection of
heaven.