The Way of the Cross
+ In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen
Opening sentence — St Paul of the Cross
The way of the Cross is the road which leads to Paradise; it is the sure way to holiness.
The Passion of Christ is the greatest and most stupendous work of Divine Love.
Station Five – Simon helps Jesus carry his cross
Matthew 27:32 ESV
As they went out, they found a man of Cyrene, Simon by name. They compelled this man to carry his cross.
Reflections:
Simon carried the cross of Christ. At first it was just a tiresome and unwelcome task he was forced into by the soldiers; only later did he recognize his privilege in shouldering the burden of the One who made the worlds.
He was compelled to carry the cross part of the way for Jesus. Simon, himself a stranger, an outcast, often misunderstood, perhaps identified with Jesus, and felt the gratitude of this Man above all men; and amid the pirty Simon felt for Him, he felt a burning compassion flowing back to him from Jesus, a burning, life-changing love. Simon carried the cross of Jesus.
Approaching Easter: The Way of the Cross
Those who suffer tribulations, suffering, persecutions, and are despised for the love of God are helping Jesus Christ carry His cross. If they persevere, they will be partakers of His glory in heaven.
Prayer
As Simon took the weight of the cross from Jesus, You have taught us that we must bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ. May we carry Your cross.
Simon was just passing by, but suddenly he was compelled to change direction, and, with all his strength given to the carrying of the cross, pressed through the crowds to the Place of the Skull, Golgatha, Calvary.
Sweet Jesus, like Simon, may we carry Your cross.
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Lord, You are the strength of those who hope in You. Listen favorably to our prayers; and since human weakness can do nothing without Your help, may Your grace assist us in the keeping of Your commandments and in pleasing You by our desires and our actions. Through Christ our Lord, Amen.
+ In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen
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Peanut Gallery: A brief word of explanation – the general format for Morning Prayer is adapted from the Northumbrian Community‘s Daily Office, as found in Celtic Daily Prayer (see online resources here.) The Scripture readings are primarily from the Gospel of John, with the intent to complete the reading by Easter. Other Scriptures which illuminate the Gospel of John will be included along the way.
Reflections from various saints will be included as their memorial days occur during the calendar year.
On Sundays, I’ll return to the USCCB readings (see online resources here) and various liturgical resources in order to reflect the Church’s worship and concerns throughout the world.
Photo illustrations and music videos, available online, are included as they illustrate or illuminate the readings. I will try to give credit and link to sources as best I can.
The Peanut Gallery 