ROOM 3 THE WEIGHT OF SIN

After the mental anguish of betrayal and abandonment, being left all alone in the hour of His greatest need, and after tremendous physical agony, we see Jesus taking his final steps towards his death. While the distance between Pontius Pilate’s palace and Golgotha where the crucifixion took place was believed to be about 1.5 kilometres, we do not know for sure how far Jesus actually carried the cross. Yet, Dr Alexander Metherell’s assessment was grim, Jesus was in hypovolemic shock as he staggered up the road to the execution site at Calvary, carrying the horizontal beam of the cross. Finally, Jesus collapsed, and the Roman soldier ordered Simon to carry the cross for him.

What spiritual significance does Jesus bearing the heavy burden of the cross and falling under its weight have for us? Pope Francis points us to Jesus carrying not just the cross, but falling under the immense strain of our sins and guilt.

“He who holds the lights of heaven in his divine hand and before whom the powers of heaven tremble: see him falling to the ground, without protecting himself, under the heavy yoke of the Cross… He who brought peace to the world, wounded by our sins, falls under the burden of our guilt.” 3

Let us stop here for a while and gaze at the replica cross placed in this room which Christ bore for us. Let us also consider Jesus’ exhortation to us all: “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me.” Are we willing to take up our cross and follow Christ faithfully?

Pray: Lord Jesus Christ, as I see you carrying the heavy cross and falling under the weight of our sins, my heart is filled with gratitude. Lord I know that following you is not easy. I am called to deny myself, take up my cross daily and follow you. Lord, grant me the will to deny myself, strength to carry my cross and grace to persevere when I stumble in my journey of faith. Amen

Act: Jesus had already taken up the heavy cross of our sin and shame in our place. What other burdens could you be carrying today? Lay them at the feet of Christ and thank Him for bearing them on the cross for you.