ACC ~ Mark 15 v20

THE PARADOX OF HIS BEING “LED OUT

” CYPRIAN: He who has given the food of heaven was fed with gall; [1] he who has offered us the cup of salvation was given vinegar to drink. [2] He the innocent, he the just, nay rather, innocence itself and justice itself is counted among criminals, [3] and truth is concealed by false testimonies. He who is to judge is judged and the Word of God, silent, is led to the cross. The elements are disturbed, the earth trembles, night blots out the day, [4] “the sun withdraws both its rays” [5] and its eyes lest it be forced to gaze upon the crime of the people. [6] Though the stars are confounded at the crucifixion of the Lord, he does not speak, nor is he moved, nor does he proclaim his majesty, even during the suffering itself. He endures all things even to the end with constant perseverance so that in Christ a full and perfect patience may find its realization. THE GOOD OF PATIENCE 7. [7]

[1] Cf. Mt 27:34.

[2] Cf. Mt 27:48; Mk 15:36; Lk 23:36.

[3] Cf. Mt 27:38; Mk 15:27; Lk 23:33; Jn 19:18.

[4] Cf. Mt 27:45, 51; Mk 15:33; Lk 23:44.

[5] Mt 27:45.

[6] Those particular Jews who called for his crucifixion.

[7] Cetedoc 0048, 7.132; FC 36:270*.