Jesus Falls

I prepared a series of reflections on the Stations of the Cross for the youth to use in presenting our parish's Good Friday evening prayer.

Here is the text for the Third Station - Jesus Falls the First Time:

Oh Jesus - it is painful to watch you.
Last week - when you entered the city - you were strong and beautiful.

I cheered with the crowds - threw palms at your feet.

You were our new celebrity - our hope for change - for freedom.

Now you are condemned - appearing less than special.

Just ordinary.

A failure.

Struggling to move forward under the weight of your cross.

Suddenly it is too much - you fall to your knees.

Reflection:

Was there something in your path that caused you to stumble?

Did someone place something in your way?
Who would have done that?

Oh...

Maybe I did it.

Maybe I put - or left an obstacle in your path.

Maybe I wasn’t even aware - or noticing.

I was just watching the spectacle

- like a news event.
Not even thinking I might have had opportunities to make things a little easier.