Hope
Its difficult to see hope in the crucifixion of Christ. However, our hope lies not in all that human evil can do to the good person but rather in the bright promise of the Resurrection and new life.
Spend some time, perhaps in front of a cross or crucifix, pondering Jesus’ suffering and thanking him for all the fruit that comes to you and awaits you through it.
Today’s Prayer
Preparation: Begin by stilling; then dedicating the time of prayer to God and asking God that all you think, feel and imagine are for the glory of God.
Gift: Ask for what you desire. Suggestion: To know Jesus more clearly, love him more dearly, and follow him more nearly.
Setting: A Scripture reading to join with those at the foot of the cross. Imaginative Contemplation
Scripture
John 19:25-30 NRSVACE
Meanwhile, standing near the cross of Jesus were his mother, and his mother’s sister, Mary the wife of Clopas, and Mary Magdalene.
When Jesus saw his mother and the disciple whom he loved standing beside her, he said to his mother, ‘Woman, here is your son.’
Then he said to the disciple, ‘Here is your mother.’
And from that hour the disciple took her into his own home.
After this, when Jesus knew that all was now finished, he said (in order to fulfil the scripture),
‘I am thirsty.’
A jar full of sour wine was standing there.
So they put a sponge full of the wine on a branch of hyssop and held it to his mouth.
When Jesus had received the wine, he said, ‘It is finished.’
Then he bowed his head and gave up his spirit.
Conversation: Talk to Jesus in your own words as a friend
Final Prayer: End with a formal prayer such as the Lord’s Prayer/Our Father.
Today’s Music
Oh Sacred Head Now Wounded: Sung by York College Choir, written by Arnulf of Leuven music by Hans Leo Hassler. (Included in J.S. Bach’s Passion Chorale)
Jesus on The Cross with me – Gemma Lamarra
My Friend and My God
Your Life
Your Death
Your Resurrection
All jam packed full of the Fruits of Your Spirit.
All accompanying me.
Jesus on The Cross with me
Sharing tears and Hope
Love and Gentleness
Embraced by Divine Friendship
Always together
Never alone.
Jesus on The Cross with me
Sharing Faith and Trust in each other
Forever Patient
As I fail to share
Your Joy, Your Peace
And Cross with others.