Entering the time of prayer:

I begin by seeking a place of peace – externally, I look for a corner that is quieter, that offers some shelter from the hustle and bustle of my usual day; and, internally, I take a deep breath and, bit by bit, breath by breath, I let go of all the busyness in my mind. Whatever is going on can wait, this is a time for God. I close my eyes; I breathe again and open myself to that place of stillness within me. I seek God’s presence that is always there. I feel God’s loving gaze on me. I let it fill me as I open my heart and my mind to this time of prayer.

First thoughts:

Holy Week. The mountain that Jesus ascended comes into view: Golgotha, the place of the Cross. As we have done throughout this time of Lent, we look to follow Him on this final climb. As we do so, we become more conscious of our own cross, of the times we fall and get back up again. We see the others who have also walked this Lenten path – how can we help each other carry our crosses, how can we help each other to follow Christ?

Today’s Bible Text: John 19:17-18

Carrying the cross by himself, Jesus went out to what is called The Place of the Skull, which in Hebrew is called Golgotha. There he was crucified, and with him two others, one on either side, with Jesus there in the middle.

I read the scripture passage slowly, I repeat it again and let the words fill my heart. What is the word or image that touches me most? How does it make me feel? I speak to God about this feeling.

Some questions for reflection:

Usually when we reach the mountain top it is a moment of satisfaction: there is a glorious view. But today the glory is also a moment of pain and suffering, a vision of horror. Even though evil surrounds him, in his death, and in his rising, Jesus triumphs.

• A light shines out from this place of death, a light that can reach us even in our places of deepest darkness. I let this light pierce my heart.
• It is living water that flows from the pierced side and heart of Christ as he dies on the cross: will I let it flow through my life, bringing nourishment, healing, fruitfulness?

Bringing our time of prayer to an end:

I take a moment and consider the path that I have travelled. I look forward and see Jesus there, still in front, as my guide on these final few steps, during these final few days before Easter. I think of the many people who have walked this same path and who remain on the road with me today. I ask God to bless us all. I show my love and gratitude with a small gesture, perhaps by making a sign of the cross, bowing my head, or by saying an Our Father or Glory Be.

Noticing the fruits of the prayer:

After my prayer I look back for a moment. I ask myself, what was it like? What touched me the most? What was challenging or difficult? What gave me feelings of warmth or peace of strength? I write down some keywords to record and remember – so that the things that are most important are not lost. I hold on to one word in particular and hold it close to my heart as I make my way through the rest of this day with you, Lord.