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THE WAY OF THE CROSS
A reflective Via Dolorosa walk
by John Hay, Jr. (West Morris Street FMC, Indianapolis, IN)

The Stations, or Way of the Cross, is an ancient method of meditating upon Christ's Suffering and Death. Trace the path of Jesus from His condemnation to His body being laid in a tomb. Bring your senses, and most of all your heart, and walk the Way of the Cross. Take time to read, reflect, pray, and/or sing. Reflect on what Jesus' journey to the cross means for you, for all.

STATION THIRTEEN: Jesus is taken down from the Cross

Scripture: "Because the Jews did not want the bodies left on the crosses during Sabbath, they asked Pilate to have the legs broken and the bodies taken down… But when they came to Jesus and found that he was already dead, they did not break his legs. Instead, one of the soldiers pierced Jesus' side with a spear, bringing a sudden flow of blood and water." John 19:31-34

Reflection: The lifeless Body of Jesus is taken down from the cross. Even after death, his corpse is again pierced. What a sight for Mary and those who look on. He who is Life lies before them lifeless. How can this be? What despair and anguish they must feel. What anguish do we feel?

Prayer: No corpse was so pathetic and beautiful as Yours, O Jesus. One from whom we would hide our faces, and yet one from whom our faces do not turn away. Even in death, we are attracted to You. Even in this state You are our Hope and Life.

Song:
See on His brow the scars the thorns made;
See where the spear was thrust in His side;
See in His hands where nails were driven.
O how he suffered and died!

He has surely borne our sorrow;
He has taken the sin-debt away.
He was bruised for our transgressions,
And by His stripes we are healed today.