Jesus takes up his cross
We adore you, O Christ, and we praise you:
Because by your holy cross you have redeemed the world.
Carrying the cross by himself, Jesus went out to what is called the Place of the Skull, which in Hebrew is called Golgotha. Although he was a Son, he learned obedience through what he suffered. Like a lamb that is led to the slaughter, and like a sheep that before its shearers is silent, so he did not open his mouth. Worthy is the Lamb that was slaughtered to receive power and wealth and wisdom and might and honor and glory and blessing. [John 9:17; Hebrews 5:8; Isaiah 53:7; Revelation 5:12]
The Lord has laid on him the iniquity of us all:
He was stricken for the sins of his people. [Isaiah 53:6, 8]
Almighty God, whose beloved Son willingly endured the agony and shame of the cross for our redemption: Give us courage to take up our cross and follow him; who lives and reigns for ever and ever.
Amen.
Who, on Christ’s dear mother thinking,
Such a cup of sorrow drinking,
Would not share her sorrows deep?