Jesus is nailed to the cross
"We adore you, O Christ, and we praise you. Because by your holy cross you have redeemed the world. "
Luke 23:33-34
And when they came to the place which is called The Skull, there they crucified him, and the criminals, one on the right and one on the left. And Jesus said, “Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do.” And they cast lots to divide his garments.
Reflection:
Here, perhaps more than anywhere else, we see God’s undeniable mercy and undying love for each of every one of us. Though he is innocent, Jesus willingly stretches out his Body upon a Cross reserved for the worst of criminals and insurrectionists. On that Cross, in the Body of Christ, hangs our every sin, sorrow, and burden. Jesus is the king of the universe, he could've easily gotten down from the cross and proven he was truly the messiah, but he endured the pain and torture, for our sake. He hung on that cross to open the gates of heaven and save the world from sin.
Prayer:
Jesus, teach us to love like you. There are so many obstacles that get in the way of loving like you: our selfishness and insecurities; our pride and unwillingness to forgive; our anger and envy; our lust and gluttony; our greed and laziness. Fill us with the grace to cast these obstacles aside so that each day we can love more like you, grant us the courage to see your father's will through so that we to can save the souls of others.