The 11th Station: Jesus is Nailed to the Cross

Presider: We adore You O Christ, and we praise You. (genuflect)
All: Because by Your Holy Cross, You have redeemed the world.

REFLECTION:

Reading Psalm 22: “My God, my God, why have you abandoned me?”  gives us greater insight to how Jesus felt in His final moments. We feel the pain and grief of an innocent who is following God’s will and see Scripture predicting the death of Jesus on the cross. 

MEDITATION:

Gather the following items: a crucifix, a candle and match, clay that has been left outside in the sun for several days.  Look at the crucifix and feel the imagery expressed in this Psalm. 

…burn the candle: imagine how it would feel to have your heart melting away like wax within your chest;

…feel the piece of clay that has been left outside and is dry and cracked: imagine the absolute dryness your mouth and throat would feel;

…a grown body has around 206 bones: imagine feeling so much pain that you can count each one of them.

Think about your own life. What have you done that has caused someone pain? What have you done to cause yourself pain? When have you had opportunities to help ease the pain of others? How did you feel when you took this time?

SUGGESTED ACTION STEPS:

In your home: look for ways to help your family and friends to ease their suffering. Help a sibling clean their room. Bake cookies for a lonely neighbor and spend time talking to them when you deliver the cookies. In your community: volunteer in the local hospital or create comforting crafts like blankets or cards. Encourage friends and family members to join you.

PRAYER:

Dear Jesus, when we feel pain, may we place our lives in Your hands. When we see others in pain, may we feel Your guidance to serve. When we hear those crying out in pain, may we be there to listen. Amen.

BY: Godwin and Gaffney Families, Family Faith & Formation for Children

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