Station 08

Exit the chapel and turn right, then immediately right again up the steps. After 25 meters you will see the end of a pillar sticking out of the wall on the left with an inscription in Greek saying: “IC XC NIKA” which means “Jesus Christ is victorious”. Here Jesus was met by a group of women who pitied Him:

“And there followed Him a great multitude of the people and of women who were mourning and lamenting for Him. But turning to them Jesus said, ‘Daughters of Jerusalem, do not weep for me, but weep for yourselves and for your children… For if they do these things when the wood is green, what will happen when it is dry?’” (Luke 23,27-31)

Jesus quotes the prophet Ezekiel: “I am about to set fire to you, and it will consume all your trees, both green and dry”. Ezekiel describes judgment by fire. As those in burning forest can escape the fire by going to the place where it already has been, so can those who want to escape the judgment of God flee to the place where the judgment has already taken place – that is to the cross.

Reflection

What a great invitation to flee the judgment that surely is to come and take cover under the outstretched arms of Jesus on the cross. Jesus said to all who heard Him: “For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save it.” John 3:17. He even said: “I came that they may have life and have it abundantly.” John 10:10.

Prayer

Thank you, Lord, for such a great salvation and such an abundant life for me, my family and friends!