Jesus arrives at His destination. He glances up, the other two are in place, screaming in pain. He looks down and waits for the soldiers to lead Him to His turn.
The remove His clothes, tossing them in a heap nearby.
The soldiers debated what to do with His clothes as they laid the cross on the ground in front of Him. They decided to cast lots for them, thus fulfilling the scripture which said, "They divided my garments among them and cast lots for my clothing." (Psalm 22:18)
Jesus lifted His eyes to the Heavens and prayed.
Prayer
Lord, the indignity they did to You. You preached openly and fearlessly. All could see by example the lessons of truth, humility and love.
May I be poor in spirit Lord, so that I can be rich in You.
Mary, my Mother, you were the first to live the way of the cross. Obtain for me the grace to understand the mystery, wisdom and love of the cross. Teach me the lessons it contains. Grant for me the grace to see Your Son in all.
Lord God, whose Blessed Son gave His body to be whipped and His face to be spit upon: Give us the grace to accept our sufferings, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Holy Mighty One,
Holy Immortal One,
Have mercy on us.
XI
