Some Christian denominations reflect on the passion, death and resurrection of Jesus during the season of Lent by reflecting on the way of the cross or stations of the cross. Some are scriptural based. Others come from tradition. Yet, there are Scriptures relating to them with which we can pray. If you wish to read the entire Passion stories in each of the Gospels you will find them in Matthew, chapters 26-28; Mark, chapters 14-16; Luke, chapters 22-24 and John, chapters 18-20. Below are 14 stations or ways plus the Resurrection with Scripture suggestions followed by a brief prayer. I invite you to add your own prayer with each one.
- Jesus is condemned to death Scripture: Luke 22: 13-25 Jesus, help us to accept others as they are, not judge them, but love them.
- Jesus carries his cross. Scripture: Mark 15:16-21 Jesus, give us the courage to accept the difficult parts of our lives that we can’t change. Teach us to use them as a means of growing closer to you and to others.
- Jesus falls the first time. Scripture: John 12: 23-25 Jesus, we fall and get discouraged. We find our hope and strength to struggle in you.
- Jesus meets his mother. Scripture: Luke 2:34-35 Jesus, how painful it must have been for your mother to see your pain and suffering and to be unable to relieve it. Help us to be compassionate to others by our attentive presence.
- Simon helps Jesus carry his cross. Scripture: Luke 23:26; Matthew 10:42 Jesus, make us realize that whatever we do for others we do for you.
- Veronica wipes the face of Jesus. Scripture: Matthew 7:12; James 3:17-18 Jesus, you are present in simple things as well as great. Teach us to be aware of and sensitive to the troubles of those around us.
- Jesus falls the second time. Scripture: Romans 12:9-13; Psalm 13 Matthew 11:28-30 Jesus, you fell under the heavy weight of your cross. You know that we are burdened with our problems. You told us to come to you and You will give us rest.
- Jesus speaks to the women from Jerusalem. Scripture: Luke 23:27-31 Jesus, let your example and suffering teach us to respond to the sufferings of others in a loving way.
- Jesus falls the third time. Scripture: Psalm 22 Jesus, thank you for loving us. We know that no matter how we fall, when we turn to you, you will be our strength and courage.
- Jesus is stripped of his garments. Scripture: John 19:23-24 John 49:16-24 (or Psalm 49: 16-24 Jesus, you gave up your life to show us how much you love us. Help us to turn our hearts to you and love you ever more deeply
- Jesus is nailed to the cross. Scripture: I john 4:9-12; Luke 23:32-49 Jesus, we praise You. Teach us how to follow your example and be forgiving, loving people
- Jesus dies on the cross Scripture: John 19:25-37; Luke 23:44-49 Jesus, you have touched us with your deep, everlasting love. You have taken away our sins through your sufferings and death. Help us to spread your love to others.
- Jesus is taken down from the cross. Scripture: John 19:38-40 Jesus, help us to accept the parting that comes when we must leave loved one, a job, home or life style. Open our hearts to your Word, especially in time of doubt.
- Jesus is buried in a tomb. Scripture: John 19: 41-42; Luke 23:50-56 Jesus, much of our life is spent waiting. We wait in loneliness, in pain, and we trust in your constant love, even when you are silent. We turn to you.
- Alleluia! Jesus is Risen! Jesus is Lord! Scripture: John 20: 1-29; Luke 24:1-49 Jesus you call us to new life in you. You call us to a deeper faith and stronger hope in you, Our Risen Lord. Thank you, Jesus. ALLELUIA.