Stations of the Cross Reflection Part 6: Died and Buried

In the final three stations, Jesus forgives those who blindly crucify him and soon breathes his last. He soon will be buried in the tomb. These stations remind us how Jesus loved each person, friend, or foe. He prayed for them equally. We are also reminded of making loving gestures for others. 

Twelfth Station: Jesus died on the Cross

Reflection: Jesus hangs on the cross. He takes time to forgive those who blindly carried out the orders to crucify him and those who mocked him. In the mere three hours before he breathed his last, He thought of each one of us, promised heaven to the repentant thief, gave Mary her children, and prayed until it was time to die. On the cross hung the redemption of the whole world because he loved us.

Prayer: Jesus, you hung on the cross and took on every sin of the world. You thought of me and all others who will exist. You took on my sufferings and that of others to conquer death. Help me understand the meaning of your death, bravely tell your gospel, and love those who need to hear it. Amen

Thirteenth Station: Jesus is Taken Down from the Cross

Reflection: Jesus is dead. His lifeless body is slowly taken down from the cross. The first to receive it is his afflicting mother. The Pieta reminds us of the times mom mourn their children who have gone astray or when they bury their own children from violence, disease, drugs, abortion, and even suicide. The image reminds us to tell those close to us how much we love them.

Prayer: Jesus, help me to live each day like it was my last for your glory.  Help me to show love and mercy to those who grieve. O Blessed Mother, help me to hate the sin while loving every person I encounter. Amen

The Fourteenth Station: Jesus is Laid in the Tomb

Reflection: A secret disciple named Joseph of Arimathea was granted custody to bury Jesus. Some secrets are well-kept. We sometimes forget to learn how to talk to others about what is troubling us. Even Joseph showed love when he offered a tomb for Jesus.

Prayer: My lord, Jesus, you were given a tomb thanks to a loving friend. Help prepare me for a happy death by living out your commandment to love others with truth and mercy even in the midst of adversity.

We adore you, O Christ, and we praise you. Because by your holy cross, you have redeemed the world.