Too often we choose the easier path, the path of least resistance. And today many preachers and lectors might do that by simply choosing the shorter version of the first reading. As Dominicans we should always give preference to the Word and proclaim the scripture. Too often we treat Mass as something to get through as opposed to the unique presence of Jesus in his Word and in the Eucharist. In the long form of today’s first reading, we come across the story of Susanna, who properly belongs to the deutero-canonical text. Simply put, she’s in the Catholic bible, not the Protestant one. Yet another reason to take a deep dive into the story.
We see in the story of Susanna, abuse, power, the silencing of a woman - themes that are still all too familiar. The Elders use their power and prestige to trap Susanna, forcing her to make one of two choices, to be violated or to be put to death. She chooses death and remains faithful to God. She calls out to Him and God intervenes and sends Daniel who confronts the elders and sorts out the truth. She is vindicated and the Elders are put to death.
Why would this story appear during Lent? Certainly, we can see a holy fidelity in the person of Susanna, one that we should emulate. More importantly though, we can see a type of Christ in Susanna. Both of them were arrested in a garden; both of them were falsely accused; both of them were put on trial, twice; both of them trusted in God; and neither of them gave any evidence in their own defense. The Christocentric parallels between the story of Susanna and especially the gospel of Matthew have been thoroughly investigated. It has been suggested that Matthew may even have used the story of Susanna in structuring his version of the passion. Whether this is true or not is an argument for biblical scholars. What strikes me is that all of the Old Testament looks forward to its fulfillment in Jesus Christ. All of history points toward the Cross. As we journey to the Cross this Lent, let us live like Susanna and our Lord, being faithful in the darkest of moments and trusting in God.