Way of the Cross: Stations 3-4 (March 22, 2013)

…Opening To…

We adore you, O Christ, and we bless you;
Because by your holy cross you have redeemed the world.

…Listening In…

Simeon blessed them and said to Mary his mother, “This boy is assigned to be the cause of the falling and rising of many in Israel and to be a sign that generates opposition so that the inner thoughts of many will be revealed. And a sword will pierce your innermost being too.” (Luke 2:34-35; context)

…Filling Up…

This Holy Week (as well as yesterday and today and tomorrow), we are be meditating on the fourteen “Stations of the Cross.” The Opening and Sending sections of this week’s Devos, as well as the italicized verses at the end of each station come from the Episcopal “Way of the Cross” service found in the Book of Occasional Services. (If you’d like to hear the complete work before next Friday, check out the music page.)

Station 3: Jesus falls the first time
Humbling
Himself, becoming most obedient;
And he is stumbling,
In human likeness was he sent
Now he’s falling,
The cross’s weight will not relent
And still he’s calling:
Return to God in love, repent

“Surely he has borne our grief:
And carried our sorrows.”

Station 4: Jesus meets his afflicted mother
Daughter of Jerusalem,
Handmaid of the Lord:
See your holy Son
Beaten, stricken, and deplored.
How vast is your ruin?
As vast as the sea?
Blessed are you who mourn
For in the light of the Lord
Comforted shall you be.

“A sword will pierce your own soul also:
And fill your heart with bitter pain.”

…Praying For…

Dear God, your holy Son knew the scorn of the world as well as the love of his mother. Help me always to remember there are people who love me, even during dark days. In Jesus Christ’s name I pray. Amen.