April 11, 2008

My Journey to God

The Way of the Cross

The journey of your suffering,
Carrying your Cross to Calvary—
The Cross that reveals redemption
And the power of your glory.

So let me journey with you
And perhaps learn something new.
Open my eyes and heart, Lord,
As I take each step with you.

You were condemned by Pilate,
“Are you the King of the Jews?”
Sadly, I too at times
Have washed my hands of you.

You willingly accept the Cross,
My sins add to its weight.
How many crosses have I shunned,
Unwilling to embrace?

Three times you fall along the way,
Each more agonizing than before.
I too have fallen often,
My courage and strength restore.

You meet your mother, Mary.
It is as Simeon foretold.
I am a mother who cannot comprehend
Mary’s heart pierced by the sword.

Simon and Veronica,
Your vulnerability they embrace.
Help me shoulder others’ burdens
And see the image of your face.

The weeping women you console,
“Do not weep for me.”
Give me courage for my trials, Lord,
And show compassion toward humanity.

You are stripped of your garments,
But not of your dignity.
Meek and steadfast you become,
Accepting the Father’s will freely.

You are crucified, my Lord.
Such agony and pain.
How can I ever
Look at the Cross the same?

“Father, forgive them,” you say aloud.
You die between two thieves.
Truly you are the Son of God,
Such unfathomable love for me.

Your lifeless body is taken down,
Joseph of Arimethea buries you.
Death will not keep its hold
For “you make all things new.”

The stone was rolled away,
“The Gardener” you were thought to be.
You are the Resurrected Christ
And in you I do believe.

So the stations are a journey,
Yesterday and today,
As we remember and proclaim
That you, Lord, are “The Way.”

By Cathy Dearing

(Cathy Dearing is a member of St. Barnabas Parish in Indianapolis.)

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