During Holy Week we hear the Lord’s Passion played out several times. We heard Matthew’s telling of the story on Palm Sunday. On Good Friday we hear John’s recounting of Christ’s suffering and death.
Several years ago I was reflecting on Christ’s Passion and began to wonder how Peter might have felt about the events leading up to Christ’s crucifixion. Peter, who Christ chooses to lead his Church, sounds like a strong, proud man. He commits his life to Christ. He promises that he will never betray his friend. He draws his sword to defend Jesus when taken captive in the Garden. But its also Peter who later denies knowing Jesus – three times.
Peter, with all of his strength and bravery, is just like you and I. He is human and not perfect. And Peter’s humanness is reflected in his deserting Jesus in his time of need.
As I reflected on Peter’s actions I began to jot down some words for a song. Using the melody line from the song, Vincent (Starry, Starry Night) by Don McLean, I penned this song. I titled it Peter’s Song (Lonely, Lonely Night). With apologies to Mr. McLean, I offer you the following as a personal reflection during Holy Week:
Peter’s Song
Lyrics by Dan Donnelly
Lonely, lonely night, lifeless corpse in silence lay
Christ abandoned, gone away are those who loved him more than faith would show
Mother’s love was true. At the cross she stayed with you
I just hid; what could I do as fear and darkness covered up my soulI want to understand what you tried to say to me
How you’d suffer for humanity. How you’d die to set us free
I could not listen, I did not know how. Lord, help me listen nowNailed upon a tree, stripped of all your dignity
I could not bear what I’d see; a bloody rose hung high between two thorns
What, Lord, did I do? I said would die for you
Love denied I turned from you; I turned my back when faith was needed mostBut, my Lord, I love you, and I always will
And though no hope is left in sight on this lonely, lonely night
I pray you will forgive the things I do
I could have told you, Jesus
This world was never meant for one as beautiful as youLonely, lonely night, guarded tomb with boulder placed
How I long to see your face; to hold you in my arms and not let go
Speak to me, my Lord. Help me hear your healing words
Teach me, Lord, what I have heard. The words you wrote upon my aching heartHelp me understand what you tried to say to me
How you’d suffer for humanity. How you’d die to set us free
I could not listen, I did not know how
Lord, help me listen now
Wishing you a blessed Easter.
Deacon Dan
Copyright © Daniel R. Donnelly. All Rights Reserved.
Deacon Dan Donnelly 