Scripture: John 19:17
So they took Jesus; and carrying the cross by himself, he went out to what is called the Place of the Skull, which in Hebrew is called Golgotha.
Reflection:
After Jesus was sentenced to death by Pilate, his physical journey to the cross started with picking up a heavy burden, the crossbar of the cross that would be the tool of his execution. Jesus did not only carry a physical load with him however, but a spiritual burden as well, as he carried the weight of all our sins to the cross. He carried our sins, and fears, and guilt, because we are unable to carry it ourselves.
Activity:
Think of the most physically exhausting load you have carried. What kind of relief did you feel when you were finally able to put it down. Now consider the most emotional, spiritual burden you have ever carried. What kind of relief did you feel or will you feel when you put it down?
Prayer:
Lord, thank you for being strong enough to carry the burdens that we cannot. We thank and praise you for your mercy and sacrifice through which you give us relief from our suffering and hope for our future. Lord, we repent of the ways that we have sinned and added to your burden. In your holy, perfect name, amen.
