St. Leonard's Way of the Cross: Twelfth Station

Jesus dies

Here is the victim already immolated, the great sacrifice already accomplished, the will of the Eternal Father already carried out. Here is Jesus on the hill of Golgotha, nailed to a cross, a pitiful sight to heaven, to earth, to the elements.

My Jesus is dead; he is dead. Those most holy eyes discolored, those lips taking their final breath, those thorns, those nails, those wounds, that opening in his side, that blood — all are sources of mercy.

But near the cross I also see Divine Justice, ready with sword in hand! Poor me, if I remain obstinate in my sins, making vain the work of my redemption! No, my Jesus, don’t allow me to leave Calvary without impressing in my heart your most bitter passion. Grant that, fearing your justice, I will live in your wounds, in your mercy.

Readings: Matthew 27:46-50; Mark 15:34-37; Luke 23:46; John 19:28-30