Jesus Falls The First Time
V. We adore you O Christ, and we praise you. R. Because by your holy cross, you have redeemed the world.
Reading: (Isaiah 50:5-7)
The Lord God has opened my ear, and I was not rebellious, I turned not backward. I gave my back to the smiters, and my cheeks to those who pulled out the beard; I did not hide my face from shame and spitting. For the Lord God helps me; therefore I have not been confounded.
Christ Speaks
The God who made the universe and holds it in existence, the God who directs the movement of the cosmos, this God is, as man, too weak to bear a piece of timber. That is the will of my father. I could not be your model otherwise. If you would be my follower, you also must accept without complaint your human limitations.
Congregation
Lord Jesus, how can I refuse? I willingly accept my weakness, irritations, and my moods. My headaches and fatigues, my difficulties in work and home, all my defects of body, mind and soul. These “handicaps” of my humanity are your will for me, I accept them gladly. After your fall, you picked yourself up, now pick me up, Lord.
Glory be to the Father...
V. Grant us your help, O Lord! R. Grant us your help! V. May the souls of all the faithful departed through the mercy of God rest in peace. R. Amen.
Hymn
Quae mœrébat et dolébat,
Pia Mater, dum vidébat
Nati pœnas ínclyti.
Christ above in torments hangs;
She – beneath beholds the pangs
Of her dying glorious son.