Crucify Him: A meditation on Holy Week

This past Sunday was palm Sunday and as our Lord  made his triumphant entry into Jerusalem he also entered the gate to his horrific death.  We all shout "Hosanna to the Son of David". "We cry out  Blessed is he who comes in the name of the LORD". But even in these words of exaltation we are deceitful and two faced.  Sure we lay our cloaks on the ground and wave palms in His honor. But to often we forget that we are the very same people who shout:
"Crucify Him!!"

We listened to the readings of our Lords passion on Sunday and at certain parts it was the congregations turn to speak. Maybe it was because Fr. Greg wanted us to participate or maybe it was for dramatic emphasis. But not for me. I couldn't stand it. I knew what words were coming, we've all heard the story after all. But it was personal.  I wasn't shouting "Give me Barabbas" for dramatic reasons. I was shouting it because I am a sinner. I wasn't shouting "Crucify Him" because I wanted to participate with the rest of the Church. No, i was doing because I knew in my heart everyday, every time I or anyone else sins that I am shouting "Crucify Him". His blood is very much on my hands. This lent has changed me. I feel like the true conversion is taking place. It isn't over though. Holy week still continues the betrayal and institution of the last supper is on Thursday, and finally Good Friday the day we pierce his precious hands, feet and side.  We have betrayed him with our lips like Judas, and we have made our choice to Crucify Him.

Look down upon me,
good and gentle Jesus
while before Your face I
humbly kneel and,
with a burning soul
and contrite heart,
pray and beseech You
to fix deep in my heart
lively sentiments
of faith, hope and
charity;
true contrition for my
sins,
and a firm purpose of
amendment.

While I contemplate,
with great love and
tender pity,
your five most precious
 wounds,
pondering over them within me
and calling to mind the
words which David,
Your prophet, said to
you, my Jesus:

"They have pierced My
hands and My feet,
they have numbered all
My bones".

Lord have mercy on me a sinner,
for it is for my sins that you My God
have suffered and died. Show mercy to your child.
Teach me through your passion and death to be obedient to you.



Jesus I'm so Sorry.