He was despised and rejected of men;
a man of sorrows and acquainted with grief.
– Isaiah 53:3

We listen today to the first section of a three-part aria (solo song). While written in a major key, often associated with ‘happy’ themes, the words, in a twist of cruel irony, describe in halting revelation the deep suffering Jesus experienced. His closest friends and followers all turned their back in Jesus’ time of need.

He was despised…despised and rejected…rejected of men...

The words sorrow and grief are particularly poignant. Unlike the previous phrase in which each word is set to one note, sorrow occurs on a descending line of eight notes, just as a heart may sigh as it is weighed down in sadness. The ache of such emotion is underscored by the dissonant harmony on the word “grief.”

Are there times when you have felt isolated, alone, or disconnected from others? Are there times when you have felt disdain or scorn for others?

Dear Jesus, you have experienced the breadth of human emotion and can hold anything that I bring to you. Grant me the courage to share all that is in my heart, knowing that you alone can heal and transform. Amen.

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SHARE THE STORY WITH CHILDREN

Jesus was a surprising messiah. Instead of a mighty king, they got a kind man. I wonder what it feels like to expect a “fight” from a big and mighty warrior, and instead to get a person who can love people even when he is hurt or sad?

FAMILY DISCUSSION QUESTION

How does it feel to be left out?