The Stations of the Cross - Station 3: Jesus falls for the first time

Jesus falls for the first time, Stained Glass by Eugene-Stanislas Oudinot 1© St Cecilia Church, Paris

22nd March 2021 - Isaiah 53:5

He was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities; upon him was the chastisement that made us whole, and with his stripes we are healed.

Reflection on the Stained Glass Window

We adore you, O Christ, and we bless you.
Because by your holy cross you have redeemed the world.

As I gaze upon this stained glass window, I can see how heavy Your cross is. You fall for the first time right in front of my eyes. The soldiers mock You and shout at You, prompting You to get up again.

I am thinking of all the people I have watched falling and never helped. I walked away. But each time I realised I fell short in generosity, You forgave me. You helped me to get up again and move on, as You did.

I can see You are tired, barefooted, holding on to Your cross. In getting up again, You share in my fatigue and shortcomings. With You by my side and loving me, I can pick up my cross and move on too... Falling is not the end.

Our Father, who art in heaven…

Hail Mary, full of grace…

Glory Be to the Father and to the Son…

(Normal Gospel reading for the day: John 8: 1-11)

LINKS

Today's story - https://christian.art/en/daily-gospel-reading/752
Christian Art - www.christian.art/index.php