Kenosis: The Mystery of Self Giving Sacrifice
Seminar Paper
Guide: Fr.George Gispert- Sauch, S.J.
By
M.A.Leo Anand, S.J.
Roll No: 02172
III year BTh
VIDYAJYOTI,
DELHI 110054
December 2012
Content Page no
1.0 Introduction 01
1.1 Jesus, one of the models 02
1.2 The Incarnation 03
1.3 Proclamation of the Kingdom 04
1.4 The Eucharist 05
1.5 The Sacrifice of the Cross 06
2.0 Biblical Perspectives 07
2.1 The Creation 08
2.2 Sanctification: Re-creation 09
3.0 Sacrifice Binding People together 09
3.1 The Inner Law of Charity 09
3.2 Spirituality of Self Transcendence 10
3.3 Service Mysticism 10
3.4 A total Commitment 11
4.0 Reflection and Discussion on Kenosis in today’s context 12
4.1 Feedback and Critique 12
4.2 Praxis 12
5.0 Conclusion 14
Bibliography 15
Kenosis: The Mystery of Self Giving Sacrifice
Yajneo yajnantha yajna is a quote from the text Sathapatha Brahmana by Yagnawakiya. It
means “ Sacrifice offered by the Sacrifice to the Sacrifice”. God is a sacrifice and the human too
is a sacrifice and they relate in Sacrifice.
Sacrifice is a most respectable word and a significant act which carries a lot of meaning in it.
It has a lot of religious connotation. It symbolizes action performed and also points out the
disposition or attitude one possesses. Sacrifice is a main part of worshiping God and also holds
the aspect of propitiation. Sacrifice etymologically means ( Lt Sacrum facere) making sacred,
something set apart for God. Sacrifice means to give to God something of us or what belongs
to us. Sometimes offering oneself to God also is a self sacrifice. Sacrifice is pre-eminently
bloody sacrifice. All major Christian traditions have affirmed that Christ’s death is sacrificial
in character. A typical ecumenical statement can accordingly be framed in the following term :
“The Eucharist is the sacrament of the unique sacrifice of Christ , who ever lives to make
Yagya signifies sacrifice in the Indic traditions. It also says that the cosmos was created from a
primordial sacrifice of God from the Indic myths of Purusa or Prajapathi.. The Islamic tradition
has the word Qurban which means sacrifice as a ritual offering. In Syriyac language also it
means the same as used by the Easter Rite Churches. Islam itself means surrendering to God. So,
Sacrifice is a key element in various religions and specially, in Christianity the core Christ event
starting from the incarnation to the crucifixion has a sacrificial aspect. Now the Catholic Church
too remembers and represents that sacrificial offering of Christ in the form of the Eucharistic
Celebration which is the source and summit of Christian life.
In this paper an attempt is made to see the Sacrifice as a mystery of self emptying following the
model Jesus has shown his followers. There are other models also in other religious traditions
that would depict such self emptying sacrifice. Sacrifice is not only a term used in rituals in
religion, but has to become an attitude of every human being. The mother sacrifices herself
Eucharist refers to a bloodless sacrifice in the Christian tradition. The word
1 Lima Document of the World Council of Churches, Baptism, Eucharist, and ministry, Faith and Order, Paper III ,
1
for her children, the husband for his spouse and vice versa, the lover for his or her beloved,
the friend for his friend or friends and many human relationships call for a sacrifice to lose
oneself for the benefit of the other. All sacrifices involve a basic aspect of relationship which is
transcending and life giving. Sacrifice is not just a concept for study but a virtue to be imbibed
of our lives as it teaches us to give as in giving that we receive2
self emptying. It is not suicidal but kills all egos to give live for others like Christ gave his live
for others. It is a mystery to be pondered and practiced.
I have been participating in the Eucharistic Sacrifice from my early age. Now as a future priest
how do I look at the concept of Sacrifice in general? Did it help me? Do I find meaning in them?
What is my experience?
Being a Christian how did Jesus’ self giving inspire me or give me courage to be a disciple? Is it
possible? How to be pragmatic?
How do I help and make sense for those who have gone away from the Catholic faith?
Kenosis: It is a term in Biblical Theology which seeks to express Christ’s self emptying in
the incarnation in his positive obedience to the Father in his conscious acceptance of death. It
signifies that in his earthly existence he chose not to manifest the glory that is his own by nature,
living the life of a slave for our sake.
Sacrifice: It is the act whereby an authorized person, representing a group of worshipers,
changes a material offering in such a way as to withdraw it from profane use, place it within the
sacred sphere and thus dedicate it to God as an expression of adoring self surrender to the holy
. Kenosis a Greek word, means
Mystery: Hidden – beyond human understanding
1.1 Jesus , one of the models
As Christians our prime-model for life and faith as Christians more than any saints or any other
traditions it is Jesus, the incarnate God. It is from his life, teaching and example we take strength,
courage and example for our times and for all times.
Peace Prayer of St.Francis of Assisi.
2
Philippians 2:5-11 “ Let the same mind be in you that was in Christ Jesus, who though he was
in the form of God , did not regard equality with God as something to be exploited but emptied
himself taking the form of a slave being born in human likeness. And being found in human
form, he humbled himself and became obedient to the point of death- even death on a cross.
Therefore God also highly exalted him and gave him the name that is above every name so that
at the name of Jesus every knee should bend, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and
every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord to the glory of God the Father.”
The above famous Christological hymn brings out the disposition which Christ had in becoming
a human. The contrast of Adam aspiring to become God and Christ the second new Adam
humbling himself to become a slave is well depicted in these lines. Humility and self surrender
are the parts of sacrificial disposition one has to have as a believer. Christian life is indeed
a participation in the mystery of Christ which may be described as Pascal mystery of which
surrender- kenosis, to God is a key factor. It means giving up one’s autonomy and independence
and living a live under the standard of God and his Spirit. Jesus challenges anything that is not
of God and in that challenge he enters the Kenosis. This surrender is the heart of Christian life
which brings about the reign of God.
Incarnation is the beginning of Christ event or the Pascal mystery. Christ through his humility
and love for humanity comes down as a human and appears in flesh to save the human family.
St. Athanasius in his early apologetic treatise De Incarnatione explains the dynamics of salvation
as they issue out of the life and activity of the inhominated Son or the Logos of God. He goes
further that Christian sacrifice is primarily connected with Christ’s sacrifice accomplished
through his death upon the cross, and also with the Eucharist the Christians appropriate or
communicate in the grace which was procured by the sacrifice of Christ. He further tells that the
Logos of God assumed his humanity from the Virgin Mary who is the temple ( Gk: naos) where
the Logos dwelt. And temple is a place where sacrifice is offered. So it is in incarnation that
Christ begins his sacrifice ( Gk Thysia). Being an all powerful God, Jesus limiting himself to the
spacio-temporal realities and becoming human is indeed a Kenosis par excel lance. Becoming
a human being - weak and lowly, vulnerable in many ways, submitting to poverty and all the
upheavals of the human society and the nature shows the self-emptying of Jesus.
3
Incarnation is an act preceded with an attitude of total self-emptying. It is a clear indication that
God respects humans. Karl Rahner in his books Spirit in the world and Hearers of the Word
mentions the glorification of the humans as a result of Incarnation. Becoming a human and
entering into the line of history is indeed a self giving sacrifice and naturally Incarnation is a
Irenaeus emphasizes the fact that only a God-Man could wash away the guilt of Adam
that Christ actually redeemed mankind by His Blood and offered "His Soul for our souls and
His Flesh for our flesh”3
through which our vitiated nature was restored to its original holiness, he nevertheless ascribes
in a special manner to the bitter Passion of the Saviour the same effects that he ascribes to
the incarnation: the making of man like unto God, the forgiveness of sin, and the annihilation of
death. Thus the beginning part of the Christ even too is important for the humanity.
The incarnation is indeed a sacrificial mystery which brings salvation to the world. The self-
emptying mystery –Kenosis seen in incarnation is the classical example for the sacrifice which
empties oneself- all powerful God to a humble creature. The whole understanding of humility
and other-centredness brings in hope and healing to all those who seek and need. Incarnation is a
prime act of God who sacrificed his divinity in order to become human. The glory and splendor
takes a back seat when saving humanity gains importance.
1.3 Proclamation of the Kingdom
Jesus, during his public ministry, preached the Word of God, healed the sick and raised the dead
and went about doing good. His whole mission was based on the Reign of God for which he
came. His preaching was good news to the poor and the marginalized. He fasted, prayed and
was in total communion with the Father so that he does only what is his Father’s will. During
his public ministry Jesus had to travel to various places. He didn’t have any place to stay, as
he said “the Son of man has nowhere to lay his head” (Mt 8:20). Cross and self denial were his
motto (Mt 16: 24-28). Jesus went ahead with his conviction to do good. Loving the enemies
(Lk 6: 27-36), grain of wheat which dies to bear fruit (Jn12:24) is a sign of self denial to ego
and death to the pride which sacrifices one’s own individual greatness. Jesus questioned the
3 Against Heresies V.1.1
. Though Irenaeus bases the redemption primarily on the incarnation,
4
dehumanizing aspect of the Jewish culture and thus made a difference. He did not compromise
with the customaries but took a step to bring a new culture of love which involves a lot of self
denial to one’s own desires and wishes. Jesus’ stand to do things differently from that of the
religious leaders brought him to trouble and was misunderstood in many ways. He did not do
things to please anyone but God alone. There is a thyaga in the mission of Jesus’ mission and
proclamation of the Kingdom.
The centre of Christian life is the Eucharist. The sacramental Sacrifice re-presents the Calvary-
sacrifice. The Catholic Church believes and teaches that the Eucharist is above all else is a
sacrifice.4 “ Since in modern man’s environment cultic sacrifices are no longer offered... the
concept of sacrifice is not related to any experience and has thus become largely misleading
primitive and alien. One wonders how many people in our Eucharistic congregations really
and a representation of the Sacrifice of the Cross. Now it is said that the Eucharist is a sacrifice
because it is a sacrament of sacrifice of the Cross. The concept of memorial does not contain the
re-enactment of the reality remembered, but the concept of a sacrament does contain the reality
signified. It is therefore true to say that the Eucharist is a sacrifice because it is a sacrament of
the sacrifice of the Cross, and this point is essential to the Theology of the Eucharist. St John
Chrysostom in his commentary on the epistle to the Hebrews says “ In Christ the saving Victim
was offered once. Then what of ourselves? Do we not offer every day? Although we do offer
daily, that is done for the recalling of his death, and the victim is one, not many. But how can
that be- one and not many? Because Christ was immolated once. For this sacrifice is what
corresponds to that sacrifice of his: the same reality, remaining always the same, is offered and
so this is the same sacrifice. Otherwise, would you say that because the sacrifice is offered on
many places, therefore there are many Christs? No, but there is one Christ in all those places,
fully present here and fully present there. And just as what is offered in all places is one and
the same body, so there is one and the same sacrifice. Christ offered a victim and we offer the
“In primis autem est Eucharistia sacrificium”Dominicae Coenae (1980), II9, AAS 72 , 130
HansKung, “On Being a Christian, London:Scm, 1977, 423
6Raymond Moloney, The Eucharist (London, , Geoffrey Chapman, 1995, 212
“ In contemporary sophisticated societies, talk of sacrifice can easily seem
Lombard says that the Eucharist is a sacrifice because it is a memorial
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selfsame now. But what we do is a recalling of his sacrifice. Nor is the sacrifice repeated because
of its weakness ( since it is what perfects humankind), but by reason of our own , because we
the truth of the sacrifice in the Eucharist. The concept of Re presentation came into Catholic
teaching when the reformist rejected the sacrificial aspect of the Eucharist.
1.5 The Sacrifice of the Cross
Jesus is a sacrifice because human beings sinned against God's holiness. Since humans sinned
they have to be punished. The punishment is separation from God. But there has to be proper
reconciliation to unite with God again. No forgiveness exists unless someone capable of
forgiving our sins pays the penalty of shedding his blood. Hebrews 9:22 says, "In fact, the law
requires that nearly everything be cleansed with blood, and without the shedding of blood there
is no forgiveness." The blood-shed by bulls and goats under Moses delayed God's wrath against
sin (Hebrews 9:6-10). An animal's blood had to be endlessly and repeatedly shed because it
couldn't once for all remove sin (Hebrews 10:1-4, 11). Their blood could cleanse the instruments
and symbols of forgiveness, but only human blood could cleanse human beings (Hebrews9:18-
23). Christ, however, singly, solely, by himself alone had sufficient worth to die in place of every
mortal in history. Everything prior to Him was preparatory to His perfect sacrifice.
Jesus Christ made the ultimate sacrifice on behalf of the whole humanity. He willingly laid down
His life to pay the penalty for the sins of all. He suffered death on a cross which was punishment
reserved in Rome for those who were non-citizens and the worst of offenders. Death on a cross
carried much shame. And it was on a cross that Christ suffered. His sacrifice makes it possible
for those who believe in Him and trust Him to be forgiven of their sins and to inherit eternal life.
The salvation for the humankind came at a great cost to our Savior, Jesus Christ.
2.0 Biblical Perspectives
In Genesis chapter 4 we see Abel offering sacrifice to God. In the 5th
Noah offering sacrifice. In Genesis 22 we see Abraham offering sacrifice. In Genesis Chapter
14 Melchizedek, a pagan King, offers sacrifice of bread and wine. In Leviticus chapters 3,
The Council of Trent continued the line of Catholic Tradition by simply reaffirming
Chapter of Genesis we see
Clark, Eucharistic Sacrificce and the Reformation,d.12, c.5
6
17and 22 speak of offering and sacrifice. We also see Solomon offering sacrifice in the first
book of Kings chapter 8. Before the laws was given by Yahweh to Moses sacrifice was already
widely practiced, both with the Israelites and other nations. The effect of the laws was not
to establish but to limit the sacrifices. All sacrifices were forbidden except the ones offered in the
temple (Deuteronomy 12:5-11) Also sacrifices to any other God but Yahweh were outlawed. In
addition, the laws had clear provision against human sacrifice which were common in religions
of those times (Leviticus 18:21). The laws turned a bloody and potentially murderous ritual into
a reasonably limited and more symbolic kind of worship.
The early history of Israel bears out the need for this kind of limitation. There was a strong
tendency to practice unlimited sacrifice without any moral bounds. It was done "in all their
towns,...on every high hill, and under every green tree," (2 Kings 17:10; 16:4) and very often
it included human victims. (2 Kings 16:3; 17:17; 21:6; 23:10; 2 Chronicles 28:3, 33:6; Psalm
106:37, 38; Isaiah 57:7; Jeremiah 7:31; 19:4-5; 32:35; Exodus 16:20; 20:26, 31; 23:37)
Sacrifice represents a symbol of a holy life pleasing to God. Yahweh and the prophets
condemned the Israel who was worshiping foreign Gods. It is because they offered human babies
The kind of sacrifices God asks for are the "sacrifices of justice," (Deuteronomy 33:19).Amos
5:22-24 says that Yahweh is not delighted in Sacrifices but want justice to roll like a river instead
and righteousness like an ever-flowing stream. Hosea 6:6 says “For I desired Mercy, and not
sacrifice; and the knowledge of God more than burnt offerings”.
In Micah 6:6 we see “Shall I come before Him with burnt offerings, with calves a year old? ...He
has shown you, O man, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justly, to
love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God?”
“The Lord as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices as in obeying the voice of the Lord?
Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to hearken than the fat of rams” says 1 Samuel
15:22). The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit says Psalm 51:16.
“To do justice and judgment is more acceptable to the Lord than sacrifice” says Proverbs 21:3.
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The Cost of Discipleship in Lk 14:25- 33 brings in the whole picture of self denial and total
selflessness of giving away everything – including life itself, to become a true disciple of the
In Jn 15:12-14 Jesus gives the new commandment to love one another. To give one’s life for his
friend is a greater love. To love others means to love like how God loves.
The New Testament St. Paul speaks of Jesus Christ as a sacrifice for us. (Ephesians 5:21) We
hear quite a bit about the blood of Jesus, and sometimes this is tied in with the idea that Jesus
was suffering a punishment from God for our sins. God was in Christ, reconciling the world to
Himself." (2 Corinthians 5:19)
We were reconciled to God by the death of His Son.... We have received atonement" (Romans
By the things He suffered" He was "perfected." (Hebrews 5:8,9)
Do not forget to do good and to share, for with such sacrifices God is well pleased." (Hebrews
To love the Lord...and to love his neighbor...is more than all whole burnt offerings and sacrifices.
In the first three chapters of Genesis we see that God created the world and all the beings. It is
to him that everything thing belongs completely. And so God is the Master of the world. It is
to God that one has to thank and praise for all that we are and we have. In that way we see the
creation myth in Indic Tradition that the Purusa creating the Cosmos out of Sacrifice. Seeing
world as the body of God is also Ramanuja’s advaita school of thought. In this we see a sense
of oneness with the divine and we need not take credit for ourselves for what we are. So God
is to be worshiped and given credit for all that is in the world. The true sacrifice here is to give
ourselves totally to the will of God who created us. So we say what belongs to God we give to
God. There is nothing we can claim that belongs to us.
2.2 Sanctification: Re-creation
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Sacrifice means "doing God's will," (Hebrews 10:7,9) and having "His law written on our
hearts." (Hebrews 8; 10:16) It means avoiding sin, (Hebrews 10:26; John 1:29) and keeping a
pure conscience." (Hebrews 10:22; 9:14). The Church today does the ministry of Sanctification
in and through the sacraments. The aspect of the sacrifice is to remove sin. So sacrifice is a
means to purify ourselves that we may be better humans who follow the love command of
Christ as Christians. We are renewed and we start again to live a virtuous life in partaking in the
sacrifice of Christ represented in the Eucharist which nourishes us with God’s word and with the
strengthening and purifying sacrificial meal – the holy Eucharist.
3.0 Sacrifice Binding People together
To offer sacrifice ritually represents the human community before God who are in covenant with
him in faith. The human community comes in communion in offering the sacrifice to God. The
sacrifice not only reconciles people with God but also binds people together in Faith which is
the important part in any community worship and individual worship. The aspect of solidarity of
Jesus with the suffering human family is the best example for communion of the whole human
3.1The Inner Law of Charity
Sacrifice means loving others, (Ephesians 5:2). In 1 Corinthians chapter 13 we see the whole
aspect of love and its manifestation.
Love is the basic force which leads to the act of sacrifice. The unconditional love or the Christian
love of Agapae which reflects the selfless love of God brings into action what is not dared in
normal circumstances. Love is the basic motto for our Christian lives which interprets God as
the supreme lover who loves unconditionally and emptied himself totally for the sake of all the
humans. That is why Love is one of the three theological virtues. St Paul in 1Corinthians chapter
13 depicts the nature of the Christian love which is superior to all other virtues. If sacrifice is
action then love should be ones disposition.
3.2 Spirituality of Self Transcendence
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The parable of the Good Samaritan (Lk 10:25-37) gives an implicit meaning of the role of
the Priest and the Levite who neglected to see the present need as they do not want to become
unclean. Though they have worshipped God and coming from Jerusalem they do not see the need
to help the needy. Self transcendence is opposed to gratification. It compliments generosity. Take
and receive prayer in the contemplation to obtain love in the spiritual exercises reflects the spirit
of self transcendence of offering oneself to the service of the divine majesty.
Common good and welfare of others could be the motive of those who don’t believe in sacrifice
or in religion. Atheists, who do not believe in God could be justified with the works they do as
works are important as it is the outcome of motives. James 2:17 justifies work with faith.
Bodhisatvas in Buddhist tradition sacrifice their liberation and prolong their stay in the world for
the sake of others. It is indeed a sacrificial aspect with an intention to help others.
Siddhas in Tamil tradition are basically atheist who don’t belong to any religion and have lead
of life of solitude with asceticism. They are a good example for self emptying sacrifice. Though
they have questioned the sacrifice of religions they had social concern for the poor and the
Presenting one’s body as a living sacrifice (Romans 12:1) is holy and acceptable to God.
Ignatian Spirituality is the best example for service mysticism. Being a mystic one could be in
solitude in contemplation. St.Ignatius of Loyola calls his followers to be mystic in the market
place. Being in the monastery, as a mystic, is one way of life which has very less apostolic
mission. Contemplation in Action is what the service mysticism talk about. We find God in
serving the people. In service one empties him or herself and thus offers one’s life as a sacrifice
for the sake of others. Emptying here means to use. God has given the life as a gift. We find
meaning not by returning back the gift but by using it for the reign of God.
3.4 A total Commitment
Philippians 2:6-8, shows us that Christ was willing to surrender His rights and prerogatives
as the second person of the Trinity to the will and purpose and plan of the Father. Then, out
10
of that surrender came the willingness to sacrifice for God’s plan no matter what the plan
called for. Surrender, then, is part of the pathway to maturity and effective Christ-like ministry.
Surrendering is single mindedness in mission not giving into dissipation or distraction which
Romans 12:1 shows the call to surrender ourselves as living sacrifices is predicated on the reality
of the “mercies of God”
Self-sacrifice means putting the Lord first above self and even family (Mat 10:37; 19:29).
Without this, no one is free to follow Him and properly influence others for Christ. Sacrifice
means “taking up one’s cross” regardless of the cost (Mat 10:38; 16:24; Luke 9:23). Taking up
one’s cross, to surrender means to relinquish possession or control to another, to submit to the
power, authority, and control of another.
The aspect of sacrifice is emphasized in Philippians 2:6-8 by the words, “He humbled himself,
by becoming obedient to the point of death—even death on a cross!” Surrendering to the
Father’s will, He emptied Himself, became man and was found in the form of a servant whereby
the Lord Jesus willingly gave Himself sacrificially that God’s will might be fulfilled in and
though His life and death. While this involves the mystery of His incarnation and stands far
beyond our comprehension, several levels of sacrifice are evident in the Savior’s surrender that
set the perfect example for us. His sacrifices actually began when He emptied himself of His
privileges and the prerogatives that were His as the second person of the Trinity. In becoming
man, He veiled and laid aside the voluntary use and glory of His many attributes as God the Son.
Then, in this life on earth, He did without wealth, position, status, and even acceptance in that
He was rejected by His own (John 1:11). Unlike the foxes that have their dens and the birds their
nests, the Son of Man had no place to lay His head (Mat 8:20). Ultimately, of course, He made
the greatest sacrifice of all in that He who knew no sin became sin for us by dying the ugly and
horrible death of the cross—a sentence reserved for the worst of criminals.
The total commitment calls for FIAT of the Virgin Mary saying yes to God and his will. Also
saying no to satan like Jesus when he was tempted.
4.0 Reflection and Discussion on Kenosis in today’s context
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Kenosis is a call for total self giving without any reserve. It can be in a family life where
the spouses give themselves totally to each other. It can be a religious commitment to the
Reign of God. It means to give without counting. It is a total self giving without the feeling
of victimization. Self abnegation, renunciation, and self annihilation are the words used in
Spiritual Theology to explain this concept. Jesus teaches us this by his example of his life. In
psychological terms this may not sound good as it does not fall in line with the assertiveness
but teaches asceticism. Losing oneself for the sake of others is not a culture to be praised in the
present day world. Using our life meaningfully for the gospel values is the kenosis here.
Sacrifice and Kenosis could be seen from the angles of Spiritual Theology, Mystical Theology,
Ascetical Theology, Sacramental Theology and Liturgical Theology. Our life should give
meaning to our rituals and symbols.
4.1 Feedback and Critique
Sacrifice is an essential part of life.
Central part of worship is sacrifice.
All state of life is a sacrifice (single, religious, married)
Eucharist is a powerful sacrifice bringing God’s presence to us in Communion.
As humans we are called to Sacrifice.
Clerical arrogance is not a good sign. Those who offer sacrifice, the so called priests
develop a discrimination of the nonpriests as they project themselves superior to the
common people leading to clerical arrogance.
Proper celebration of the Mass is a must for the faithful.
Lives of priests are not exemplary.
Firstly speaking from the liturgical point of view, as a future priest who offers sacrifice and
presides over the liturgies, one’s life has to reflect the Christ who offered the Calvary Sacrifice
which was acceptable to God. The Eucharist which is the centre of Christian life has to balance
the symbolic aspect and the meaningfulness. It has to make sense to all the believers. So our
liturgical celebration has to reflect that it is a time of grace- kairos in which we encounter God.
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So the presider has to prepare well and make the liturgy a meaningful one through the breaking
of the word and the Word.
Everyone wants to offer what one has as sacrifice. But very few are willing to offer self sacrifice
Time of selfless service for others, total availability for mission could be the interpretation of the
Vow of Chastity. Total availability for others is an aspect which one gives selflessly for others.
Forgiveness: In Mt 5-23-24 Jesus proposes the importance of reconciliation before offering.
Though we speak of restorative justice, forgiving the enemies like Christ did is a challenge for
all of us. In forgiving we empty our ego and hurt.
Blood and Organ donation: These are symbol of self giving.
No-pain spirituality (Mortification): The modern day culture is a no-pain spirituality. In sacrifice
there is pain and loss. Suffering and loss is considered evil. But at the same time some amount
of pain is necessary for growth. Like the labour pain which brings about a new life, sacrifice in
small little ways builds life.
Environmental Concerns: People like to live a sophisticated life which adds on to the pollution
of the environment. We burn a lot of fossil fuel which pollutes the atmosphere. The Ozone
depletion due to the usage of CFC has threatened the life on earth. Can we sacrifice our comforts
so that we could help the future generation peacefully?
Greed, accumulation and narcissistic attitude are the vices which are against Sacrificial
dispositions and acts. Having more culture leaves others deprived of their basic needs. The world
suffers from poverty and hunger though the food production shows that there is 10% excess
food than what is needed for the whole world. What sacrifice shall we make for Social and
Dehumanization , poverty and violence strike a section of the human family. We do have
collection during the Eucharist which could be used for those in need. Word of God spoken in
the Liturgy has to be liberative which destroys all dehumanizing agents. Violence and war in the
name of religion cannot be a sacrifice as it is against life.
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Self emptying love is a mystery but not impossibility. The ultimate purpose of the sacrifice is
to give life. Forgiveness of sins and reconciling with God is a life giving act which the sacrifice
brings forth in its entirety. Any sacrifice will have a purification rite which gives the Absolution.
The act of self denial and reaching out to the Anawin is a purifying rite in the sacrifice of day
to day life. Kenosis is not possible without Agapae- love for God and love for the neighbour.
Our neighbor could be anyone in need like the wounded man who was helped by the Good
Samaritan. Love should be our driving force to be and to act. Jesus gave us the example of tough
love which emptied him totally without any reserve which is the Offertory. We remember the
Lord’s example of self emptying then we are doing the Anamnesis. In the sacrifice which
unites God and human we have the vertical communion and also the horizontal communion with
our fellow humans bound by the Holy Spirit which is the Epiclesis. God’s acceptance is a part
of Sacrifice. God accepts us and sanctifies us and perfects us-Consummation. When we are
perfected and we have peace as we are in union with God and with the cosmos and everything
is in harmony- Communion. Then at last we have the end the Reign of God, Kairos, in which
we have the bliss of the beatific vision-The Dismissal. We are missioned to go out and be the
good news to others by proclaiming God’s kingdom to the whole world- to all creation. Sacrifice
is not only in liturgy to be performed in rituals (mystery to be wondered) and symbols ( to find
meaning ) but has to be our way of life in our daily activities-and thus become the mystery for
our self emptying, to be missioned into the world to reach out.
It is not enough to only to participate in a sacrifice and feel content, but by becoming a sacrifice
itself would be the climax- following Jesus’ example with love and loyalty.
What best can we offer than oneself!
Yajneo Yajnantha Yajna could be our song and our experience.
Byron, Brian Francis. Sacrifice and Symbol, Catholic Institute of Sydney, Australia, 1991
Finsterbusch, Karin[ed]; Lange, Asmin [ed], Romheld, K.F.Diedthard[ed]; Lazar, Lance[ed].
Human Sacrifice in Jewish and Christian Tradition
14
Heim, S.Mark. Saved from Sacrifice, Grand Rapids, Wm.B.Eerdmans , Michigan, 2006
Mc Guckian, Michael, C.SJ. The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass, Herefordshire, Gracewing, 2005
Peieris, Aloysius, S.J. Mysticism of Service, Tulana Jubilee Publications, Gonawala- Kelaniya,
Podimattam , Felix M. Kenosis Spirituality, Claretian Publication , Malleswaram, 2002
Praseed, George, IMS. Sacrifice and Cosmos, Decent Books.2009
Sykes, S.W.[ed]. Sacrifice and Redemption, Cambridge University Press, 1991
Seminar Paper
Guide: Fr.George Gispert- Sauch, S.J.
By
M.A.Leo Anand, S.J.
Roll No: 02172
III year BTh
VIDYAJYOTI,
DELHI 110054
December 2012
Content Page no
1.0 Introduction 01
1.1 Jesus, one of the models 02
1.2 The Incarnation 03
1.3 Proclamation of the Kingdom 04
1.4 The Eucharist 05
1.5 The Sacrifice of the Cross 06
2.0 Biblical Perspectives 07
2.1 The Creation 08
2.2 Sanctification: Re-creation 09
3.0 Sacrifice Binding People together 09
3.1 The Inner Law of Charity 09
3.2 Spirituality of Self Transcendence 10
3.3 Service Mysticism 10
3.4 A total Commitment 11
4.0 Reflection and Discussion on Kenosis in today’s context 12
4.1 Feedback and Critique 12
4.2 Praxis 12
5.0 Conclusion 14
Bibliography 15
Kenosis: The Mystery of Self Giving Sacrifice
Yajneo yajnantha yajna is a quote from the text Sathapatha Brahmana by Yagnawakiya. It
means “ Sacrifice offered by the Sacrifice to the Sacrifice”. God is a sacrifice and the human too
is a sacrifice and they relate in Sacrifice.
Sacrifice is a most respectable word and a significant act which carries a lot of meaning in it.
It has a lot of religious connotation. It symbolizes action performed and also points out the
disposition or attitude one possesses. Sacrifice is a main part of worshiping God and also holds
the aspect of propitiation. Sacrifice etymologically means ( Lt Sacrum facere) making sacred,
something set apart for God. Sacrifice means to give to God something of us or what belongs
to us. Sometimes offering oneself to God also is a self sacrifice. Sacrifice is pre-eminently
bloody sacrifice. All major Christian traditions have affirmed that Christ’s death is sacrificial
in character. A typical ecumenical statement can accordingly be framed in the following term :
“The Eucharist is the sacrament of the unique sacrifice of Christ , who ever lives to make
Yagya signifies sacrifice in the Indic traditions. It also says that the cosmos was created from a
primordial sacrifice of God from the Indic myths of Purusa or Prajapathi.. The Islamic tradition
has the word Qurban which means sacrifice as a ritual offering. In Syriyac language also it
means the same as used by the Easter Rite Churches. Islam itself means surrendering to God. So,
Sacrifice is a key element in various religions and specially, in Christianity the core Christ event
starting from the incarnation to the crucifixion has a sacrificial aspect. Now the Catholic Church
too remembers and represents that sacrificial offering of Christ in the form of the Eucharistic
Celebration which is the source and summit of Christian life.
In this paper an attempt is made to see the Sacrifice as a mystery of self emptying following the
model Jesus has shown his followers. There are other models also in other religious traditions
that would depict such self emptying sacrifice. Sacrifice is not only a term used in rituals in
religion, but has to become an attitude of every human being. The mother sacrifices herself
Eucharist refers to a bloodless sacrifice in the Christian tradition. The word
1 Lima Document of the World Council of Churches, Baptism, Eucharist, and ministry, Faith and Order, Paper III ,
1
for her children, the husband for his spouse and vice versa, the lover for his or her beloved,
the friend for his friend or friends and many human relationships call for a sacrifice to lose
oneself for the benefit of the other. All sacrifices involve a basic aspect of relationship which is
transcending and life giving. Sacrifice is not just a concept for study but a virtue to be imbibed
of our lives as it teaches us to give as in giving that we receive2
self emptying. It is not suicidal but kills all egos to give live for others like Christ gave his live
for others. It is a mystery to be pondered and practiced.
I have been participating in the Eucharistic Sacrifice from my early age. Now as a future priest
how do I look at the concept of Sacrifice in general? Did it help me? Do I find meaning in them?
What is my experience?
Being a Christian how did Jesus’ self giving inspire me or give me courage to be a disciple? Is it
possible? How to be pragmatic?
How do I help and make sense for those who have gone away from the Catholic faith?
Kenosis: It is a term in Biblical Theology which seeks to express Christ’s self emptying in
the incarnation in his positive obedience to the Father in his conscious acceptance of death. It
signifies that in his earthly existence he chose not to manifest the glory that is his own by nature,
living the life of a slave for our sake.
Sacrifice: It is the act whereby an authorized person, representing a group of worshipers,
changes a material offering in such a way as to withdraw it from profane use, place it within the
sacred sphere and thus dedicate it to God as an expression of adoring self surrender to the holy
. Kenosis a Greek word, means
Mystery: Hidden – beyond human understanding
1.1 Jesus , one of the models
As Christians our prime-model for life and faith as Christians more than any saints or any other
traditions it is Jesus, the incarnate God. It is from his life, teaching and example we take strength,
courage and example for our times and for all times.
Peace Prayer of St.Francis of Assisi.
2
Philippians 2:5-11 “ Let the same mind be in you that was in Christ Jesus, who though he was
in the form of God , did not regard equality with God as something to be exploited but emptied
himself taking the form of a slave being born in human likeness. And being found in human
form, he humbled himself and became obedient to the point of death- even death on a cross.
Therefore God also highly exalted him and gave him the name that is above every name so that
at the name of Jesus every knee should bend, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and
every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord to the glory of God the Father.”
The above famous Christological hymn brings out the disposition which Christ had in becoming
a human. The contrast of Adam aspiring to become God and Christ the second new Adam
humbling himself to become a slave is well depicted in these lines. Humility and self surrender
are the parts of sacrificial disposition one has to have as a believer. Christian life is indeed
a participation in the mystery of Christ which may be described as Pascal mystery of which
surrender- kenosis, to God is a key factor. It means giving up one’s autonomy and independence
and living a live under the standard of God and his Spirit. Jesus challenges anything that is not
of God and in that challenge he enters the Kenosis. This surrender is the heart of Christian life
which brings about the reign of God.
Incarnation is the beginning of Christ event or the Pascal mystery. Christ through his humility
and love for humanity comes down as a human and appears in flesh to save the human family.
St. Athanasius in his early apologetic treatise De Incarnatione explains the dynamics of salvation
as they issue out of the life and activity of the inhominated Son or the Logos of God. He goes
further that Christian sacrifice is primarily connected with Christ’s sacrifice accomplished
through his death upon the cross, and also with the Eucharist the Christians appropriate or
communicate in the grace which was procured by the sacrifice of Christ. He further tells that the
Logos of God assumed his humanity from the Virgin Mary who is the temple ( Gk: naos) where
the Logos dwelt. And temple is a place where sacrifice is offered. So it is in incarnation that
Christ begins his sacrifice ( Gk Thysia). Being an all powerful God, Jesus limiting himself to the
spacio-temporal realities and becoming human is indeed a Kenosis par excel lance. Becoming
a human being - weak and lowly, vulnerable in many ways, submitting to poverty and all the
upheavals of the human society and the nature shows the self-emptying of Jesus.
3
Incarnation is an act preceded with an attitude of total self-emptying. It is a clear indication that
God respects humans. Karl Rahner in his books Spirit in the world and Hearers of the Word
mentions the glorification of the humans as a result of Incarnation. Becoming a human and
entering into the line of history is indeed a self giving sacrifice and naturally Incarnation is a
Irenaeus emphasizes the fact that only a God-Man could wash away the guilt of Adam
that Christ actually redeemed mankind by His Blood and offered "His Soul for our souls and
His Flesh for our flesh”3
through which our vitiated nature was restored to its original holiness, he nevertheless ascribes
in a special manner to the bitter Passion of the Saviour the same effects that he ascribes to
the incarnation: the making of man like unto God, the forgiveness of sin, and the annihilation of
death. Thus the beginning part of the Christ even too is important for the humanity.
The incarnation is indeed a sacrificial mystery which brings salvation to the world. The self-
emptying mystery –Kenosis seen in incarnation is the classical example for the sacrifice which
empties oneself- all powerful God to a humble creature. The whole understanding of humility
and other-centredness brings in hope and healing to all those who seek and need. Incarnation is a
prime act of God who sacrificed his divinity in order to become human. The glory and splendor
takes a back seat when saving humanity gains importance.
1.3 Proclamation of the Kingdom
Jesus, during his public ministry, preached the Word of God, healed the sick and raised the dead
and went about doing good. His whole mission was based on the Reign of God for which he
came. His preaching was good news to the poor and the marginalized. He fasted, prayed and
was in total communion with the Father so that he does only what is his Father’s will. During
his public ministry Jesus had to travel to various places. He didn’t have any place to stay, as
he said “the Son of man has nowhere to lay his head” (Mt 8:20). Cross and self denial were his
motto (Mt 16: 24-28). Jesus went ahead with his conviction to do good. Loving the enemies
(Lk 6: 27-36), grain of wheat which dies to bear fruit (Jn12:24) is a sign of self denial to ego
and death to the pride which sacrifices one’s own individual greatness. Jesus questioned the
3 Against Heresies V.1.1
. Though Irenaeus bases the redemption primarily on the incarnation,
4
dehumanizing aspect of the Jewish culture and thus made a difference. He did not compromise
with the customaries but took a step to bring a new culture of love which involves a lot of self
denial to one’s own desires and wishes. Jesus’ stand to do things differently from that of the
religious leaders brought him to trouble and was misunderstood in many ways. He did not do
things to please anyone but God alone. There is a thyaga in the mission of Jesus’ mission and
proclamation of the Kingdom.
The centre of Christian life is the Eucharist. The sacramental Sacrifice re-presents the Calvary-
sacrifice. The Catholic Church believes and teaches that the Eucharist is above all else is a
sacrifice.4 “ Since in modern man’s environment cultic sacrifices are no longer offered... the
concept of sacrifice is not related to any experience and has thus become largely misleading
primitive and alien. One wonders how many people in our Eucharistic congregations really
and a representation of the Sacrifice of the Cross. Now it is said that the Eucharist is a sacrifice
because it is a sacrament of sacrifice of the Cross. The concept of memorial does not contain the
re-enactment of the reality remembered, but the concept of a sacrament does contain the reality
signified. It is therefore true to say that the Eucharist is a sacrifice because it is a sacrament of
the sacrifice of the Cross, and this point is essential to the Theology of the Eucharist. St John
Chrysostom in his commentary on the epistle to the Hebrews says “ In Christ the saving Victim
was offered once. Then what of ourselves? Do we not offer every day? Although we do offer
daily, that is done for the recalling of his death, and the victim is one, not many. But how can
that be- one and not many? Because Christ was immolated once. For this sacrifice is what
corresponds to that sacrifice of his: the same reality, remaining always the same, is offered and
so this is the same sacrifice. Otherwise, would you say that because the sacrifice is offered on
many places, therefore there are many Christs? No, but there is one Christ in all those places,
fully present here and fully present there. And just as what is offered in all places is one and
the same body, so there is one and the same sacrifice. Christ offered a victim and we offer the
“In primis autem est Eucharistia sacrificium”Dominicae Coenae (1980), II9, AAS 72 , 130
HansKung, “On Being a Christian, London:Scm, 1977, 423
6Raymond Moloney, The Eucharist (London, , Geoffrey Chapman, 1995, 212
“ In contemporary sophisticated societies, talk of sacrifice can easily seem
Lombard says that the Eucharist is a sacrifice because it is a memorial
5
selfsame now. But what we do is a recalling of his sacrifice. Nor is the sacrifice repeated because
of its weakness ( since it is what perfects humankind), but by reason of our own , because we
the truth of the sacrifice in the Eucharist. The concept of Re presentation came into Catholic
teaching when the reformist rejected the sacrificial aspect of the Eucharist.
1.5 The Sacrifice of the Cross
Jesus is a sacrifice because human beings sinned against God's holiness. Since humans sinned
they have to be punished. The punishment is separation from God. But there has to be proper
reconciliation to unite with God again. No forgiveness exists unless someone capable of
forgiving our sins pays the penalty of shedding his blood. Hebrews 9:22 says, "In fact, the law
requires that nearly everything be cleansed with blood, and without the shedding of blood there
is no forgiveness." The blood-shed by bulls and goats under Moses delayed God's wrath against
sin (Hebrews 9:6-10). An animal's blood had to be endlessly and repeatedly shed because it
couldn't once for all remove sin (Hebrews 10:1-4, 11). Their blood could cleanse the instruments
and symbols of forgiveness, but only human blood could cleanse human beings (Hebrews9:18-
23). Christ, however, singly, solely, by himself alone had sufficient worth to die in place of every
mortal in history. Everything prior to Him was preparatory to His perfect sacrifice.
Jesus Christ made the ultimate sacrifice on behalf of the whole humanity. He willingly laid down
His life to pay the penalty for the sins of all. He suffered death on a cross which was punishment
reserved in Rome for those who were non-citizens and the worst of offenders. Death on a cross
carried much shame. And it was on a cross that Christ suffered. His sacrifice makes it possible
for those who believe in Him and trust Him to be forgiven of their sins and to inherit eternal life.
The salvation for the humankind came at a great cost to our Savior, Jesus Christ.
2.0 Biblical Perspectives
In Genesis chapter 4 we see Abel offering sacrifice to God. In the 5th
Noah offering sacrifice. In Genesis 22 we see Abraham offering sacrifice. In Genesis Chapter
14 Melchizedek, a pagan King, offers sacrifice of bread and wine. In Leviticus chapters 3,
The Council of Trent continued the line of Catholic Tradition by simply reaffirming
Chapter of Genesis we see
Clark, Eucharistic Sacrificce and the Reformation,d.12, c.5
6
17and 22 speak of offering and sacrifice. We also see Solomon offering sacrifice in the first
book of Kings chapter 8. Before the laws was given by Yahweh to Moses sacrifice was already
widely practiced, both with the Israelites and other nations. The effect of the laws was not
to establish but to limit the sacrifices. All sacrifices were forbidden except the ones offered in the
temple (Deuteronomy 12:5-11) Also sacrifices to any other God but Yahweh were outlawed. In
addition, the laws had clear provision against human sacrifice which were common in religions
of those times (Leviticus 18:21). The laws turned a bloody and potentially murderous ritual into
a reasonably limited and more symbolic kind of worship.
The early history of Israel bears out the need for this kind of limitation. There was a strong
tendency to practice unlimited sacrifice without any moral bounds. It was done "in all their
towns,...on every high hill, and under every green tree," (2 Kings 17:10; 16:4) and very often
it included human victims. (2 Kings 16:3; 17:17; 21:6; 23:10; 2 Chronicles 28:3, 33:6; Psalm
106:37, 38; Isaiah 57:7; Jeremiah 7:31; 19:4-5; 32:35; Exodus 16:20; 20:26, 31; 23:37)
Sacrifice represents a symbol of a holy life pleasing to God. Yahweh and the prophets
condemned the Israel who was worshiping foreign Gods. It is because they offered human babies
The kind of sacrifices God asks for are the "sacrifices of justice," (Deuteronomy 33:19).Amos
5:22-24 says that Yahweh is not delighted in Sacrifices but want justice to roll like a river instead
and righteousness like an ever-flowing stream. Hosea 6:6 says “For I desired Mercy, and not
sacrifice; and the knowledge of God more than burnt offerings”.
In Micah 6:6 we see “Shall I come before Him with burnt offerings, with calves a year old? ...He
has shown you, O man, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justly, to
love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God?”
“The Lord as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices as in obeying the voice of the Lord?
Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to hearken than the fat of rams” says 1 Samuel
15:22). The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit says Psalm 51:16.
“To do justice and judgment is more acceptable to the Lord than sacrifice” says Proverbs 21:3.
7
The Cost of Discipleship in Lk 14:25- 33 brings in the whole picture of self denial and total
selflessness of giving away everything – including life itself, to become a true disciple of the
In Jn 15:12-14 Jesus gives the new commandment to love one another. To give one’s life for his
friend is a greater love. To love others means to love like how God loves.
The New Testament St. Paul speaks of Jesus Christ as a sacrifice for us. (Ephesians 5:21) We
hear quite a bit about the blood of Jesus, and sometimes this is tied in with the idea that Jesus
was suffering a punishment from God for our sins. God was in Christ, reconciling the world to
Himself." (2 Corinthians 5:19)
We were reconciled to God by the death of His Son.... We have received atonement" (Romans
By the things He suffered" He was "perfected." (Hebrews 5:8,9)
Do not forget to do good and to share, for with such sacrifices God is well pleased." (Hebrews
To love the Lord...and to love his neighbor...is more than all whole burnt offerings and sacrifices.
In the first three chapters of Genesis we see that God created the world and all the beings. It is
to him that everything thing belongs completely. And so God is the Master of the world. It is
to God that one has to thank and praise for all that we are and we have. In that way we see the
creation myth in Indic Tradition that the Purusa creating the Cosmos out of Sacrifice. Seeing
world as the body of God is also Ramanuja’s advaita school of thought. In this we see a sense
of oneness with the divine and we need not take credit for ourselves for what we are. So God
is to be worshiped and given credit for all that is in the world. The true sacrifice here is to give
ourselves totally to the will of God who created us. So we say what belongs to God we give to
God. There is nothing we can claim that belongs to us.
2.2 Sanctification: Re-creation
8
Sacrifice means "doing God's will," (Hebrews 10:7,9) and having "His law written on our
hearts." (Hebrews 8; 10:16) It means avoiding sin, (Hebrews 10:26; John 1:29) and keeping a
pure conscience." (Hebrews 10:22; 9:14). The Church today does the ministry of Sanctification
in and through the sacraments. The aspect of the sacrifice is to remove sin. So sacrifice is a
means to purify ourselves that we may be better humans who follow the love command of
Christ as Christians. We are renewed and we start again to live a virtuous life in partaking in the
sacrifice of Christ represented in the Eucharist which nourishes us with God’s word and with the
strengthening and purifying sacrificial meal – the holy Eucharist.
3.0 Sacrifice Binding People together
To offer sacrifice ritually represents the human community before God who are in covenant with
him in faith. The human community comes in communion in offering the sacrifice to God. The
sacrifice not only reconciles people with God but also binds people together in Faith which is
the important part in any community worship and individual worship. The aspect of solidarity of
Jesus with the suffering human family is the best example for communion of the whole human
3.1The Inner Law of Charity
Sacrifice means loving others, (Ephesians 5:2). In 1 Corinthians chapter 13 we see the whole
aspect of love and its manifestation.
Love is the basic force which leads to the act of sacrifice. The unconditional love or the Christian
love of Agapae which reflects the selfless love of God brings into action what is not dared in
normal circumstances. Love is the basic motto for our Christian lives which interprets God as
the supreme lover who loves unconditionally and emptied himself totally for the sake of all the
humans. That is why Love is one of the three theological virtues. St Paul in 1Corinthians chapter
13 depicts the nature of the Christian love which is superior to all other virtues. If sacrifice is
action then love should be ones disposition.
3.2 Spirituality of Self Transcendence
9
The parable of the Good Samaritan (Lk 10:25-37) gives an implicit meaning of the role of
the Priest and the Levite who neglected to see the present need as they do not want to become
unclean. Though they have worshipped God and coming from Jerusalem they do not see the need
to help the needy. Self transcendence is opposed to gratification. It compliments generosity. Take
and receive prayer in the contemplation to obtain love in the spiritual exercises reflects the spirit
of self transcendence of offering oneself to the service of the divine majesty.
Common good and welfare of others could be the motive of those who don’t believe in sacrifice
or in religion. Atheists, who do not believe in God could be justified with the works they do as
works are important as it is the outcome of motives. James 2:17 justifies work with faith.
Bodhisatvas in Buddhist tradition sacrifice their liberation and prolong their stay in the world for
the sake of others. It is indeed a sacrificial aspect with an intention to help others.
Siddhas in Tamil tradition are basically atheist who don’t belong to any religion and have lead
of life of solitude with asceticism. They are a good example for self emptying sacrifice. Though
they have questioned the sacrifice of religions they had social concern for the poor and the
Presenting one’s body as a living sacrifice (Romans 12:1) is holy and acceptable to God.
Ignatian Spirituality is the best example for service mysticism. Being a mystic one could be in
solitude in contemplation. St.Ignatius of Loyola calls his followers to be mystic in the market
place. Being in the monastery, as a mystic, is one way of life which has very less apostolic
mission. Contemplation in Action is what the service mysticism talk about. We find God in
serving the people. In service one empties him or herself and thus offers one’s life as a sacrifice
for the sake of others. Emptying here means to use. God has given the life as a gift. We find
meaning not by returning back the gift but by using it for the reign of God.
3.4 A total Commitment
Philippians 2:6-8, shows us that Christ was willing to surrender His rights and prerogatives
as the second person of the Trinity to the will and purpose and plan of the Father. Then, out
10
of that surrender came the willingness to sacrifice for God’s plan no matter what the plan
called for. Surrender, then, is part of the pathway to maturity and effective Christ-like ministry.
Surrendering is single mindedness in mission not giving into dissipation or distraction which
Romans 12:1 shows the call to surrender ourselves as living sacrifices is predicated on the reality
of the “mercies of God”
Self-sacrifice means putting the Lord first above self and even family (Mat 10:37; 19:29).
Without this, no one is free to follow Him and properly influence others for Christ. Sacrifice
means “taking up one’s cross” regardless of the cost (Mat 10:38; 16:24; Luke 9:23). Taking up
one’s cross, to surrender means to relinquish possession or control to another, to submit to the
power, authority, and control of another.
The aspect of sacrifice is emphasized in Philippians 2:6-8 by the words, “He humbled himself,
by becoming obedient to the point of death—even death on a cross!” Surrendering to the
Father’s will, He emptied Himself, became man and was found in the form of a servant whereby
the Lord Jesus willingly gave Himself sacrificially that God’s will might be fulfilled in and
though His life and death. While this involves the mystery of His incarnation and stands far
beyond our comprehension, several levels of sacrifice are evident in the Savior’s surrender that
set the perfect example for us. His sacrifices actually began when He emptied himself of His
privileges and the prerogatives that were His as the second person of the Trinity. In becoming
man, He veiled and laid aside the voluntary use and glory of His many attributes as God the Son.
Then, in this life on earth, He did without wealth, position, status, and even acceptance in that
He was rejected by His own (John 1:11). Unlike the foxes that have their dens and the birds their
nests, the Son of Man had no place to lay His head (Mat 8:20). Ultimately, of course, He made
the greatest sacrifice of all in that He who knew no sin became sin for us by dying the ugly and
horrible death of the cross—a sentence reserved for the worst of criminals.
The total commitment calls for FIAT of the Virgin Mary saying yes to God and his will. Also
saying no to satan like Jesus when he was tempted.
4.0 Reflection and Discussion on Kenosis in today’s context
11
Kenosis is a call for total self giving without any reserve. It can be in a family life where
the spouses give themselves totally to each other. It can be a religious commitment to the
Reign of God. It means to give without counting. It is a total self giving without the feeling
of victimization. Self abnegation, renunciation, and self annihilation are the words used in
Spiritual Theology to explain this concept. Jesus teaches us this by his example of his life. In
psychological terms this may not sound good as it does not fall in line with the assertiveness
but teaches asceticism. Losing oneself for the sake of others is not a culture to be praised in the
present day world. Using our life meaningfully for the gospel values is the kenosis here.
Sacrifice and Kenosis could be seen from the angles of Spiritual Theology, Mystical Theology,
Ascetical Theology, Sacramental Theology and Liturgical Theology. Our life should give
meaning to our rituals and symbols.
4.1 Feedback and Critique
Sacrifice is an essential part of life.
Central part of worship is sacrifice.
All state of life is a sacrifice (single, religious, married)
Eucharist is a powerful sacrifice bringing God’s presence to us in Communion.
As humans we are called to Sacrifice.
Clerical arrogance is not a good sign. Those who offer sacrifice, the so called priests
develop a discrimination of the nonpriests as they project themselves superior to the
common people leading to clerical arrogance.
Proper celebration of the Mass is a must for the faithful.
Lives of priests are not exemplary.
Firstly speaking from the liturgical point of view, as a future priest who offers sacrifice and
presides over the liturgies, one’s life has to reflect the Christ who offered the Calvary Sacrifice
which was acceptable to God. The Eucharist which is the centre of Christian life has to balance
the symbolic aspect and the meaningfulness. It has to make sense to all the believers. So our
liturgical celebration has to reflect that it is a time of grace- kairos in which we encounter God.
12
So the presider has to prepare well and make the liturgy a meaningful one through the breaking
of the word and the Word.
Everyone wants to offer what one has as sacrifice. But very few are willing to offer self sacrifice
Time of selfless service for others, total availability for mission could be the interpretation of the
Vow of Chastity. Total availability for others is an aspect which one gives selflessly for others.
Forgiveness: In Mt 5-23-24 Jesus proposes the importance of reconciliation before offering.
Though we speak of restorative justice, forgiving the enemies like Christ did is a challenge for
all of us. In forgiving we empty our ego and hurt.
Blood and Organ donation: These are symbol of self giving.
No-pain spirituality (Mortification): The modern day culture is a no-pain spirituality. In sacrifice
there is pain and loss. Suffering and loss is considered evil. But at the same time some amount
of pain is necessary for growth. Like the labour pain which brings about a new life, sacrifice in
small little ways builds life.
Environmental Concerns: People like to live a sophisticated life which adds on to the pollution
of the environment. We burn a lot of fossil fuel which pollutes the atmosphere. The Ozone
depletion due to the usage of CFC has threatened the life on earth. Can we sacrifice our comforts
so that we could help the future generation peacefully?
Greed, accumulation and narcissistic attitude are the vices which are against Sacrificial
dispositions and acts. Having more culture leaves others deprived of their basic needs. The world
suffers from poverty and hunger though the food production shows that there is 10% excess
food than what is needed for the whole world. What sacrifice shall we make for Social and
Dehumanization , poverty and violence strike a section of the human family. We do have
collection during the Eucharist which could be used for those in need. Word of God spoken in
the Liturgy has to be liberative which destroys all dehumanizing agents. Violence and war in the
name of religion cannot be a sacrifice as it is against life.
13
Self emptying love is a mystery but not impossibility. The ultimate purpose of the sacrifice is
to give life. Forgiveness of sins and reconciling with God is a life giving act which the sacrifice
brings forth in its entirety. Any sacrifice will have a purification rite which gives the Absolution.
The act of self denial and reaching out to the Anawin is a purifying rite in the sacrifice of day
to day life. Kenosis is not possible without Agapae- love for God and love for the neighbour.
Our neighbor could be anyone in need like the wounded man who was helped by the Good
Samaritan. Love should be our driving force to be and to act. Jesus gave us the example of tough
love which emptied him totally without any reserve which is the Offertory. We remember the
Lord’s example of self emptying then we are doing the Anamnesis. In the sacrifice which
unites God and human we have the vertical communion and also the horizontal communion with
our fellow humans bound by the Holy Spirit which is the Epiclesis. God’s acceptance is a part
of Sacrifice. God accepts us and sanctifies us and perfects us-Consummation. When we are
perfected and we have peace as we are in union with God and with the cosmos and everything
is in harmony- Communion. Then at last we have the end the Reign of God, Kairos, in which
we have the bliss of the beatific vision-The Dismissal. We are missioned to go out and be the
good news to others by proclaiming God’s kingdom to the whole world- to all creation. Sacrifice
is not only in liturgy to be performed in rituals (mystery to be wondered) and symbols ( to find
meaning ) but has to be our way of life in our daily activities-and thus become the mystery for
our self emptying, to be missioned into the world to reach out.
It is not enough to only to participate in a sacrifice and feel content, but by becoming a sacrifice
itself would be the climax- following Jesus’ example with love and loyalty.
What best can we offer than oneself!
Yajneo Yajnantha Yajna could be our song and our experience.
Byron, Brian Francis. Sacrifice and Symbol, Catholic Institute of Sydney, Australia, 1991
Finsterbusch, Karin[ed]; Lange, Asmin [ed], Romheld, K.F.Diedthard[ed]; Lazar, Lance[ed].
Human Sacrifice in Jewish and Christian Tradition
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Heim, S.Mark. Saved from Sacrifice, Grand Rapids, Wm.B.Eerdmans , Michigan, 2006
Mc Guckian, Michael, C.SJ. The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass, Herefordshire, Gracewing, 2005
Peieris, Aloysius, S.J. Mysticism of Service, Tulana Jubilee Publications, Gonawala- Kelaniya,
Podimattam , Felix M. Kenosis Spirituality, Claretian Publication , Malleswaram, 2002
Praseed, George, IMS. Sacrifice and Cosmos, Decent Books.2009
Sykes, S.W.[ed]. Sacrifice and Redemption, Cambridge University Press, 1991
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