Way of the Cross: Station 2-Jesus Takes up His Cross

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Jesus Bearing Cross
by Josh, 11th Grade Student

Prop
Cross

Scripture

Finally Pilate handed him over to them to be crucified. So the soldiers took charge of Jesus. Carrying his own cross, he went out to the place of the Skull (which in Aramaic is called Golgotha.)

John 19:16b-17

Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross…

Hebrews 12:2

Reflections

What were Jesus’ thoughts as he walked through the busy streets? As he made eye contact with those he passed by?

After being beaten close to death, Jesus is made to carry the beams he would die on. How heavy that weight must have been.

In beginning this road with the cross, Jesus becomes one with everyone who has ever bled or been scorned or been unfairly punished. He becomes one with you and me. The very creator of the universe experiences the ultimate suffering.

Yet, somewhere in the middle of the pain there was joy. The joy was that he was bringing salvation to the entire the world.

The Cross

If you want, try to lift the cross. Feel the weight of it. Imagine having to carry this after being flogged almost to the point of death. This is what Christ did for you.

Prayer

Jesus, I don’t know how alone you felt as you carried the cross through the busy streets. I do know that it took a lot of courage and humility to bear that cross for the whole world. Thank you for your grace.

Jesus, as you experienced joy in the middle of pain, you give me hope in my suffering. Grant that I may know your joy which goes beyond the temporary and rests on the eternal.