5th Sunday of Lent Year B - 25/3/2012 - Gospel: Jn 12, 20-33
The Hour
Jesus constantly talked about 'the hour' to indicate that He would undergo suffering, death and resurrection.  "The hour" also referred to the time that Jesus would glorify God the Father.

There were mixed feelings when Jesus talked about 'the hour'.  On the one hand, Jesus was willing, ready and fully committed to do the will of the Father; on the other hand Jesus experienced fear, nervousness and a reluctance to undergo the Passion.  These feelings signify the reality that Jesus was truly human.  In times of hardship, He felt the same as we do.

In times of trouble we all need encouragement.  It is the same for Jesus—to ease the tension and nervousness Jesus uses the analogy of a grain of wheat that gives a rich harvest to describe how his death will benefit the souls of mankind.

Unless a wheat grain falls on the ground and dies, it remains only a single grain; but if it dies, it yields a rich harvest.  John 12:2.

As the Son of God Jesus went to his death and subsequently gave glory to the Father.

'The Hour" of Jesus serves a dual purpose.  It gives glory to the Father and gives salvation to the souls of many.

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