The Second Station ~ Jesus Takes Up His Cross

In Mel Gibson's film, The Passion of the Christ, Jesus is shown even to embrace the cross. One thief scowls and yells, calling Jesus a fool for hugging the cross. But by the cross Jesus reveals a love for God and us that's bigger than death and bigger than all the insults humanity expels against God. 

Jesus isn't hesitant; he doesn't negotiate, leaving options open for when things get too hard. And I? Miles of  pharmacy aisles promise to keep every pain and inconvenience away. We cut deals and corners, procrastinate and half measure, avoiding the discomfort of the day, the struggles of relationships, the illness, the weather and the work we have to do. 

Oh Jesus, I've got a cross to pick up too. Keep me from so much complaining and direct me to reliance upon you only. 

Silence

Our Father Who art in Heaven...

Hail Mary full of grace...

Glory be to the Father...

The First Station ~ Jesus is Condemned by Pilate

The night before in the garden, Jesus accepted the cup of suffering. Now he is powerless in Pilate's hands. The terrible events which will lead to his being condemned, sentenced and executed begin to unfold. But I must remember, Jesus could have escaped from the garden, seeing the lantern-lit procession coming for him in the night. In his prayer that evening, Jesus had chosen Your will be done.

Charles de Foucauld (1858-1916) was a Catholic Frenchman who lived as a desert-hermit among the tribal populations of Algeria. Learning their language and sharing their struggles, Charles offered himself as a brother and hospitable friend to all, knowing that enemies could take his life at any time. Perhaps I can make his prayer my own:

Father of mine, I place myself into your hands. I give myself over to you. I trust you. Do as you like with me. Whatever you do with me, I thank you. I am ready for anything. I accept anything so long as your will is done within me and all your creatures. I desire nothing else, my God.

Silence

Our Father Who Art in Heaven...

Hail Mary, full of grace...

Glory be to the Father...

And yet again for Lent ~ Save A Child

• Americans spend 4.2 bbbbillion dollars a year on perfume.
• Americans spend 11 bbbbillion  dollars a year on their morning coffee.
• Americans spend 34.6 bbbbillion dollars a year on gambling.
• Americans spend 2.3 bbbbillion dollars on tattoos.
• Americans spend 65 bbbbillion dollars on soda.
• Amereicans spend 18 bbbbillion dollars a year on credit card   late fees.

Americans spend money. Whatever we do for Lent this year, might we do it to save a child. Here are a few organizations which keep the needs of children very much in the forefront of their work.

Child Fund International
The Missionaries of the Poor
CNEWA Catholic Near East Welfare Association
Catholic Medical Mission Board
Cross International
Unbound: Sponsor a Child