9 - Jesus falls a third time
Lord, you are my hope, my life and my salvation. Show me the example of your obedience.
Scripture:
He was despised and rejected by men, a man of sorrows, and familiar with suffering. Like one from whom men hide their faces he was despised, and we esteemed him not. Isaiah 53:3
Meditation:
Longinus, the Roman soldier who made a crown of thorns and put it on Jesus’ head, watches, almost stirred to pity, as Jesus struggles for each step he takes. Longinus is the one who forced Jesus to get up every time he fell. Two legionnaires haul Jesus along by means of long ropes, but it is not enough. He falls again -- this time full length, his face pressed into the dust and dirt of the road. How can he go on? Longinus has seen Jesus’ face as he looks at his tormentors and the curious along the road. In Jesus’ eyes Longinus sees not hate or despair but rather understanding -- maybe even love. Some called him the Son of God. Longinus wonders if it might be true....
Prayer:
My Lord and my God, you taught us to aid the fallen and be strong for the weak. Yet in your most lonely hour, no one stepped forth to ease your journey. Walk with me that I might find strength to give to others who have fallen. I ask in your most precious name, Amen.
