Way of the Cross

"For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life." – John 3:16

Today I went to the Stations of the Cross with my family after school. While meditating on the Passion of Our Lord I felt so much pain for what the sins of this world did to our Savior. My heart ached at the thought of my own sins causing Him such a tragic death with so much suffering. Yet I felt joy at the thought of God's mercy and infinite love for us that is so real, holy, pure, true, and divine. No other love can compare to the love of God. He gave up His own life so that we may live.

Recalling my trip to Medjugorje, in 2010, I remember climbing the Cross Mountain with my family and friends. As we climbed up we reflected on each station along the way. While climbing this mountain, which is very rocky, I thought about Jesus carrying His own cross up to Calvary. With every step I felt more tired and exhausted, but I knew this was nothing compared to the agony Christ endured for us. Along the way, pausing at each station, I felt a very strong physical and emotional connection to His Passion. No words can describe the feeling when we got to the very top—seeing the huge, beautiful white cross. It was a glorious sight and a rewarding experience!

During this Lenten Season let us reflect on the Passion of our Lord as written by St. Alphonsus Liguori with this prayer:

My most beloved Jesus, I embrace all the sufferings You have destined for me until death. I beg You, by all You suffered in carrying Your cross, to help me carry mine with Your perfect peace and resignation. I love You, Jesus, my love; I repent of ever having offended You. Never let me separate myself from You again. Grant that I may love You always; and then do with me as You will. Amen.