Second Station

Second Station - Jesus Carries His Cross

Consider how Jesus, in making this journey with the cross on his shoulders, thought of us and offered for us to his Father the death he was about to undergo.

V. We adore thee o Christ and we bless thee.
R. Because by thy Holy Cross thou has redeemed the world.

A STRONG, and therefore heavy Cross, for it is strong enough to bear Him on it when He arrives at Calvary, is placed upon His torn shoulders. He receives it gently and meekly, nay, with gladness of heart, for it is to be the salvation of mankind.
True; but recollect that heavy Cross is the weight of our sins. As it fell upon His neck and shoulders, it

came down with a shock. Alas ! what a sudden, heavy weight have I laid upon Thee, O Jesus. And, though in the calm and clear foresight of Thy mind --for Thou sees all things--Thou was fully prepared for it, yet Thy feeble frame tottered under it when it dropped down upon Thee. Ah ! how great a misery is it that I have lifted up my hand against my God. How could I ever fancy He would forgive me unless He had Himself told us that He under- went this bitter passion in order that He might forgive us. I acknowledge, O Jesus, in the anguish and agony of my heart, that my sins it was that struck Thee on the face, that bruised Thy sacred arms, that tore Thy flesh with iron rods, that nailed Thee to the Cross, and let Thee slowly die upon it.

Our Father, Hail Mary.

V. Have mercy on us, O Lord.

R. Have mercy on us.