Apr 15 - The Nails

Matthew 27:32-35

As they went out, they found a man of Cyrene, Simon by name. They compelled this man to carry his cross. And when they came to a place called Golgotha (which means Place of a Skull), they offered him wine to drink, mixed with gall, but when he tasted it, he would not drink it. And when they had crucified him, they divided his garments among them by casting lots.

Reflection

The gospel writers don’t use many words to describe the actual event of the crucifixion. Simply, stating that he was crucified. This is what this elaborate narrative has led to. He was crucified. The most humiliating, agonizing, torturous form of death imaginable. Carrying the weight of the brokenness and pain and darkness of all time and history.

Imagine yourself at Golgotha on that dark day. Picture yourself on that hill - hearing the sounds, smelling the smells, feeling the weight and the gravity of the moment. Feel the tension and the pain. Feel the hope.

Prayer

Lord Jesus, you bled in pain as the nails were driven into your flesh: transform through the mystery of your love the pain of those who suffer. To you, Jesus, our crucified Lord, be honor and glory with the Father and the Holy Spirit, now and forever.