Even with help, Jesus stumbles
and falls to the ground. In deep exhaustion he stares at the earth beneath
him. "Remember, you are dust and to dust you will return." He has seen death
before. Now he can feel the profound weakness of disability and disease and
aging itself, there on his knees, under the weight of his cross.
I contemplate Jesus brought very
low. As I behold him there on the ground, with all the agony taking its toll
on him, I let my heart go out to him. I store up this image in my heart, knowing
that I will never feel alone in my suffering or in any diminishment, with
this image of Jesus on the ground before me. This is for me, so I express
the feelings in my heart.
