The Eleventh Station: Jesus Promises to Share His Reign

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

Now one of the criminals hanging there reviled Jesus, saying, “Are you not the Messiah? Save yourself and us." The other, however, rebuking him, said in reply, “Have you no fear of God, for you are subject to the same condemnation? And indeed, we have been condemned justly, for the sentence we received corresponds to our crimes, but this man has done nothing criminal." Then he said, “Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom." He (Jesus) replied to him, “Amen, I say to you, today you will be with me in Paradise." (Luke 23: 39-43)

Reflection

Even as Jesus was hanging on the cross in pain, struggling to breathe, he shows compassion and mercy to those near him. Despite their transgressions or wrong-doings, Jesus shows us how to offer undeserved grace.

What can we do as followers of Christ? Jesus offers an example of how to love, even when the conditions are not optimal. Things couldn’t be much in this moment, yet Jesus offers compassion, grace, and love. Jesus knows that doing the right thing and standing up for justice is hard and that often it is needed when times are not good. We are called to persevere and stand in hope, with love and mercy, for all people… even if we think they may not be deserving. We can in fact stand up for justice, while showing love for ALL people.

Let us pray.

Lord Jesus Christ, you stretched out your arms of love on the hard wood of the cross that everyone might come within the reach of your saving embrace: So clothe us in your Spirit that we, reaching forth our hands in love, may bring those who do not know you to the knowledge and love of you; for the honor of your Name. Amen.

Holy God,
Holy and Mighty,
Holy Immortal One,
Have mercy upon us.

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