Scripture: John 19:23-25
23 When the soldiers crucified Jesus, they took his clothes, dividing them into four shares, one for each of them, with the undergarment remaining. This garment was seamless, woven in one piece from top to bottom. 24 “Let’s not tear it,” they said to one another. “Let’s decide by lot who will get it.” This happened that the scripture might be fulfilled that said, “They divided my clothes among them and cast lots for my garment.” So this is what the soldiers did. 25 Near the cross of Jesus stood his mother, his mother’s sister, Mary the wife of Clopas, and Mary Magdalene.
Reflection:
Think of the movement from Jesus taking off His outer garment, tying a towel around His waist, and washing the disciples feet – a picture of true humility – to Jesus being stripped of His clothes, watching as they are gambled off, with His mother, her sister, and Mary Magdalene witnessing the whole thing – a picture of utter humiliation and shame. Jesus understands what it is to be humiliated and shamed.
Activity:
Remember a time you were filled with shame. This shame may have been caused by someone else’s action or your own actions. First, remember this event and time as you experienced it. Now, recognize that as you were going through this experience Jesus was beside you. Once again remember this experience and this time see yourself giving the shame you felt to Jesus and see how he accepts the shame you felt as an act of love on the cross.
Prayer:
Jesus, help me to know Your compassion, to bring my pain, my shame, and my loss to You, Who has experienced the fullness of pain, shame, and loss. Holy Spirit, fill me with hope and an assurance of Your love, that I may praise You even in the midst of suffering. Amen.
