Sorrowful Mysteries - Carrying of the Cross

Dear Jesus, how much weight our sins added to your weary shoulders, already burdened by the weight of that wooden cross. Bruised and bleeding, you dragged yourself forward in the directon mapped out by the Father. You stumbled, fell and lifted yourself up from the dust. You raised your weary head and for a moment, time must have stood still as your eyes locked on the sorrowful eyes of your precious mother.  Within that moment of mutual gaze, passed expression beyond words. Agony to the depths of her feet must have stopped her from flinging herself upon you, to grasp you to her bosom and cover your wounds with her motherly kisses. You suffered more because of her suffering, she suffered more because of yours.

Heavenly Father, I ask that just as Simon was sent to lift some of that heavy load during Jesus' walk to Calvary, please send your angel helpers to assist those reading this now in carrying their cross today. It's an unfamiliar road, with ups and downs and loosened lessons that cause them to occasionally slip and stumble...somethimes crushing them between the burdens of yesterday, today and tomorrow.

Just as it was with your Son, it is very difficult for them to look into the eyes of their loved ones, knowing their suffering, compounds other's suffering. Help them to focus all eyes on you, Father, and the end of this road which offers what eyes have not seen and ears have not heard...all that you have ready and waiting for those that love you. Father, I ask in Jesus' name that you shorten this painful journey and that those on the crooked suffering path be given a respite of love straight from you.

Amen