Station IX

Jesus Falls the Third Time

This last fall is devastating. Jesus can barely proceed to the end. Summoning all this remaining strength, supported by his inner trust in God, Jesus collapses under the weight of the cross. His executioners look at him as a broken man, pathetic yet paying a price he deserves. They help him up so he can make it up the hill of crucifixion.

Reader: We adore thee, O Christ, and we bless thee.

All: Because by thy holy cross
thou hast redeemed the world.

I pause to contemplate him there on the ground.
The brokenness that makes me whole.
The surrender that gives me life.
I pause to experience and receive
how completely he loves me. He is indeed completely poured out for me.

As I treasure this gifted experience,
I express what is in my heart.

In the passion of my Maker, be my sinful soul partaker,
may I bear with her my part.