Veronica steps toward Jesus, giving Him a wet cloth. With not even a glance toward the soldiers or consideration of her own safety, she sought to alleviate His suffering by gently wiping His face.
Jesus felt the comfort of the cloth and opened His eyes, able to see her without the blood and sweat trickling down His face. She wanted to reach out and hug Him but the soldiers roughly pushed her back and they continued along their way.
Prayer
Lord, grant me a moment of Yourself. Print Your face upon my thoughts and Your likeness within my heart.
Live in me. Act in me. Love in me but not in me alone - in all who follow You - so that we may reveal Your glorious face on Earth.
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.
O God, Grant to us that we may be strengthened to bear our cross and be changed into His likeness; through Jesus Christ, Your Son, our Lord. Amen.
Holy Mighty One,
Holy Immortal One,
Have mercy on us.
VII
