JESUS DIES ON THE CROSS

“• On the uppermost part of the Cross the reason for the sentence is written: “Jesus of Nazareth King of the Jews” (Jn 19:19). And all who pass by insult him and jeer at him. “If he is the king of Israel, let him come down here and now from the cross” (Mt 27:42). One of the thieves comes to his defence: “This man has done no evil…” (Lk 23:41). Then, turning to Jesus, he makes a humble request, full of faith: “Lord, remember me when thou comest into thy kingdom” (Lk 23:42). “Truly, I say to thee: This day thou shalt be with me in Paradise” (Lk 23:43). At the foot of the Cross stands his Mother, Mary, with other holy women. Jesus looks at her; then he looks at the disciple whom he loves, and he says to his Mother: “Woman, behold thy son.” Then he says to the disciple: “Behold thy mother” (Jn 19:26-27). The sun ‘s light is extinguished and the earth is left in darkness. It is close on three o ‘clock, when Jesus cries out: “Eli, Eli, lamma sabacthani? That is: My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?” (Mt 27:46). Then, knowing that all things are about to be accomplished, that the Scriptures may be fulfilled, he says: “I am thirsty” (Jn 19:28). The soldiers soak a sponge in vinegar and, placing it on a reed of hyssop, they put it to his mouth. Jesus sips the vinegar, and exclaims: “It is accomplished” (Jn 19:30). The veil of the temple is rent, and the earth trembles, when the Lord cries out in a loud voice: “Father, into thy hands I commend my spirit” (Lk 23:46). And he expires.

• Love sacrifice; it is a fountain of interior life. Love the Cross, which is an altar of sacrifice. Love pain, until you drink, as Christ did, the very dregs of the chalice.”
St. Josemaria, The Way of the Cross, Station XII
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