Station 03

From the second Station, descend about 200 meters and then take a left turn. Immediately to the left you will find on the pavement a different set of large stones, which could date back to the first century AD. Next to this you find a small chapel at the third Station.

The Gospels make no mention of Jesus falling. However, you can easily imagine the words of King David in Psalm 35 applying to Jesus: “But when I stumbled, they gathered in glee; assailants gathered against me without my knowledge. They slandered me without ceasing. Like the ungodly they maliciously mocked; they gnashed their teeth at me.”

Jesus, having been severely flogged, beaten and crowned with thorns had lost a lot of blood. Sometimes people died just from torture by the Romans, before they could even be crucified. With physical strength failing, weary and thirsty, Jesus was most likely unable to keep a firm path on His way to Calvary.

Reflection

Jesus called on his disciples to: “take up your cross and follow me”. On the way to His own execution Jesus experienced the pain of a heavy cross beam that dug into the wounds on His back, shoulder and arms. Let us meditate on Jesus’ words once more: “If you wish to be my disciple, take up your cross and follow me.”

Prayer

Father, help me to live as a disciple of Jesus, embracing suffering as well as joy.