Jesus falls for the third time
Even were I to walk in a ravine as dark as death, I shall fear no danger, for you are at my side. Your crook and your staff are there to comfort me. (Ps 23, 4)
When the Lord has given you the bread of suffering and the water of distress, he who is your teacher will hide no longer and you will see him with your own eyes. Whether you turn right or left, your ears will hear these words behind you, ‘There is the way; head for it’. (Is 30, 20–21)
Lord Jesus, burdened with the sorrow of the depth of mankind’s fall, you fell a third time under the weight of the cross. Yet you were able to rise once more because you knew in your heart the love of the Father.
Loving Lord, it is when I fully accept my cross that you reveal the depth of your love for me. You raise me up and fill my heart with joy. With you at my side the way is clear, and I count it a privilege and a blessing to carry my cross with you. You call me, Jesus, to love the unlovable in their suffering. May I find the grace to embrace them just as they are, for in them I embrace you, my Lord and Saviour in your sufferings.
Lord Jesus Crucified, have mercy.
