Station 02

The second Station is in a Franciscan convent across the street from the first Station. Entering the courtyard, on your right is the Church of the Flagellation. On the left is the Church of the Condemnation; the floor of this church was part of the Roman Road at the time of Jesus. Next to the church benches, carvings can be seen on the floor, which were used for casting lots.

“Then the governor’s soldiers took Jesus into the Praetorium… They stripped Him and put a scarlet robe on Him, and then twisted together a crown of thorns and set it upon His head. They put a staff in His right hand. They knelt in front of Him and mocked Him. ‘Hail, king of the Jews’ they said. They spit on Him, and took the staff and struck Him on the head again and again. After they had mocked Him, they took off the robe and put His own clothes back on Him. Then they led Him away to crucify Him.

Soldiers brutally enforced the judgment, yet innocent Jesus underwent this abuse and without resistance He took up His cross.

Reflection

Defending ourselves is natural; however, Jesus endures the humiliation and willingly takes up His cross. This element of obedience is not to be underestimated; we know how we struggle with this aspect in our daily lives. Jesus obeys step by step the plan of salvation of mankind, which His Father in Heaven has laid out before Him.

Prayer

Father, I am thankful for Jesus’ obedience to carry the cross on our behalf.