Jesus is condemned to death
The high priest put a second question to Jesus saying, ‘Are you the Christ, the Son of the Blessed One?’ ‘I am,’ said Jesus. (Mk 14, 61)
I tell you, if anyone openly declares himself for me in the presence of others; the Son of Man will declare himself for him in the presence of God’s angels. (Lk 12, 8)
Do not be taken aback at the testing by fire which is taking place among you, as though something strange were happening to you. But in so far as you share in the sufferings of Christ, be glad, so that you may enjoy a much greater gladness when his glory is revealed. (1 Pet 4, 12–13)
If you declare with your mouth that Jesus is Lord, and if you believe with your heart that God raised him from the dead then you will be saved. It is by believing with the heart that you are justified and by making the declaration with your lips that you are saved. (Rom 10: 9–10)
Lord Jesus, as we stand with you, the victim of unjust accusation and abuse, we remember that you taught us not to be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. The world hated you because you are not of this world. You are the Christ, the Anointed One of God. You loved your enemies, you blessed those who cursed you, and prayed for those who injured you. You turned the other cheek, you gave up your cloak, you were silent before your accusers.
Loving Lord, as you declared yourself for the Father, I here and now declare myself for you. I am your disciple, you, the Christ, the Son of the living God, who lived on earth as man, and who died so my sins might be forgiven. God the Father raised you from the dead to be seated at his right hand, and through you, calls me to share the fullness of your life with him.
Lord Jesus Crucified, have mercy.
