Jesus Dies on the Cross
On the uppermost part of the cross the reason for the sentence is written: Jesus of Nazareth, King of the Jews (Jn 19:19). And all who pass by insult him and jeer at him. If he is the king of Israel, let him come down here and now from the cross (Mt 27:42).
One of the thieves comes to his defense: This man has done no evil (Lk 23:41). Then turning to Jesus, he makes a humble request, full of faith: Lord, remember me when thou comest into thy kingdom (Lk 23:42). Truly, I say to thee: This day thou shalt be with me in Paradise (Lk 23:43).
At the foot of the cross stands his mother, Mary, with other holy women. Jesus looks at her; then he looks at the disciple whom he loves, and he says to his mother: Woman, behold thy son. The he says to the disciple: Behold thy mother (Jn 19:26-27).
The sun's light is extinguished, and the earth is left in darkness. It is close to three o'clock when Jesus cries out: Eli, Eli, lamma sabacthani? That is: My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me? (Mt 27:46).
Then knowing that all things are about to be accomplished, that the scriptures may be fulfilled, he says: I am thirsty (Jn 19:28).
The soldiers soak a sponge in vinegar and, placing it on a reed of hyssop, put it to his mouth. Jesus sips the vinegar and exclaims: It is accomplished!
The veil of the temple is rent, and the earth trembles, when the Lord cries out in a loud voice: Father into thy hands I commend my spirit. And he expires.
Love sacrifice; it is a fountain of interior life. Love the cross, which is an altar of sacrifice. Love pain, until you drink, as Christ did, the very dregs of the chalice.
