Eleventh Station
Jesus is nailed to the cross
From the Gospel according to Luke (23:32-34)
Two others also, who were criminals, were led away to be put to death with him. When they came to the place that is called The Skull, they crucified Jesus there with the criminals, one on his right and one on his left. Then Jesus said, “Father, forgive them; for they do not know what they are doing.”
Nothing frightens us more than being unable to move. Yet here you are, bound, nailed, held fast. Still, you are not alone, but in the company of two others, resolved to reveal yourself even on the cross as “God with us.” Revelation never stops; it is not nailed to one place. Lord, you show us that in every situation there is a choice to be made. That is the amazing reality of our freedom. Not even on the cross are you stripped of your freedom: you decide why and for whom you are there. You are attentive to both the men crucified with you: you let slip the insults of one and you hear the plea of the other. You are even concerned for the men who crucify you: you peer into the hearts of those who “know not what they do.” You look up to the sky: you would like it clearer, yet you break through its barrier of gloom with the light of your intercession. Nailed to the cross you intercede: you “stand between” conflicting parties. And you bring them to God, because your cross tears down walls, cancels debts, quashes judgements, establishes reconciliation. You yourself are the true Jubilee. Convert us to you, Jesus; though nailed fast to the cross, you are able to do all things.
Let us pray, saying: Teach us to love
When we are strong and when we are not: | Teach us to love. | |
When we are bound by unjust laws or decisions: | Teach us to love. | |
When we are at odds with those uninterested in truth and justice: | Teach us to love. | |
When we are tempted to despair: | Teach us to love. | |
When everyone says, “There is nothing to be done:” | Teach us to love. - Pope Francis, Way of the Cross at the Colosseum |