Lourdes Lower Station 02

Lourdes lower station 02, calls on everyone to reflect on the significance of Jesus' journey to Calvary and to find inspiration in His example of love and sacrifice. It reminds us of the profound impact that acts of compassion, empathy, and courage can have, even in the face of immense suffering.

V. We adore Thee, O Christ,
and we praise Thee.
R. Because by Thy holy Cross,
thou hast redeemed the world.

The Cross in placed upon his scourged torn shoulders.
The wood green and heavy, weighing heavily with all our sins.
Jesus accepts it with gladness of heart, for the salvation of mankind.

Imagine being Mary, the mother of Jesus, watching your son being condemned to carry a heavy wooden cross. I read book that Mary knew the divine purpose of Jesus, but did that make it any easier for her? I would guess no it didn't. Her heart must have been shattered into a million pieces.  Her silent tears and steadfast presence exemplify the strength and love of a mother who stood by her child even in the darkest of times. For Catholics, Mary serves as a powerful symbol of faith and resilience.

This is an ultimate act of love and obedience to God.  He knew the path ahead was filled with unimaginable pain and suffering, but He accepted it willingly. What did the cross mean for Jesus? The cross is a symbol of the sins of humanity.  His compassion and unwavering commitment to fulfil God's will despite knowing the agony it would bring.

I just laid all my sins and weaknesses on His shoulders.
Jesus had foresight and can see all things and was fully prepared for the weight of the whole world's sins to be carried. As the cross was cruelly dropped onto His tortured body and tattered torn shoulders, my heart drops because I added to this as well.

My heart is so torn of the misery I have caused against my God. Would I ever be forgiven after this. It was my sins that those soldiers struck Jesus with blow after blow, me causing such misery. Jesus I truly am sorry.

The Soldiers

The Roman soldiers had a job to do. To them, Jesus was just another criminal condemned to die. They didn't understand His true identity or the significance of His mission. I ask myself this question all the time, am I a follower or leader? The soldiers saw Him as a troublemaker who had to be dealt with. They mocked Him, placed a crown of thorns on His head, and forced Him to carry the cross through the streets of Jerusalem. Their actions were driven by duty and perhaps even a sense of superiority, reflecting the cruelty and misunderstanding that often surrounds acts of true sacrifice. Many times, I find myself being a radical one on the job. If it doesn't fit my morals for other human beings, then it's not for me.
How about you do you have enough courage to take a stand?

The Crowd

The crowd that lined the streets of Jerusalem had mixed emotions about Jesus. Can you put yourself there?  Some were His followers, weeping and praying as they watched Him struggle under the weight of the cross. Others were indifferent or even hostile, shouting and jeering at Him. Where do you stand today? This diverse crowd reflects the range of human responses to suffering and injustice. Some people empathize and support those in pain, while others remain detached or critical.

A Modern Believer

So here we are at Lourdes lower station 02 in the Prairie. What do you think the modern-day believer believes? For me I realize Jesus made a sacrifice for me. Taking up His cross signifies for me to pick up my cross and follow Him. Is it easy, not all the time. Thats just it the cross serves as a reminder of my struggles and burdens that I don't have to manage on my own. Jesus if I call out to Him will help and lighten the load. But remember Jesus made the ultimate sacrifice for humanity. Whether you are Catholic or a non-Catholic, this even underscore the universal them of love, sacrifice and redemption.

All Stations of the Cross
Pray the Rosary