Jesus falls for the first time
It is a narrow gate and a hard road that leads to life. (Mt 7, 14)
Everyone, no matter how firmly he thinks he is standing, must be careful he does not fall. (1 Cor 10, 12) k
In the world you will have hardship, but be courageous, I have overcome the world. (Jn 6, 33)
Lord Jesus, you fell under the burden of the sin of the world. You kept your eyes on the Father, and he bore you up in your distress. It was your love for humankind and your desire to do the Father’s will that bore you onward. When you walked our earth as man, you were subject to temptation, but like no man before you, you did not give way.
Loving Lord, I am sorry that in my weakness I have given way to all kinds of temptation. In my foolishness and pride I have told myself I can walk this path alone, but the way is not easy. I have strayed from the truth and lost sight of the light.
I commit myself now to follow you, the good Shepherd, and to carry my cross amidst my brothers and sisters. And if one should stumble, let me not speak words of condemnation, but rather words of encouragement, for we all struggle to bear our cross. Let me share with them only a joyful confidence in a loving Savior.
Lord Jesus Crucified, have mercy.
