Pope Francis: The Lord’s Passion And Via Crucis FOURTEENTH STATION "YOU TOO NEED TO TRUST POPE FRANCIS!"

FOURTEENTH STATION
Jesus is placed in the tomb
Protected for ever

Adoramus…

From the Gospel according to John

“After these things, Joseph of Arimathea… asked Pilate to let him take away the body of Jesus. Pilate gave him permission, so he came and removed his body. Nicodemus also came, bringing a mixture of myrrh and aloes, weighing about a hundred pounds. They took the body of Jesus and wrapped it with the spices in linen cloths, according to the burial custom of the Jews”.[72]

THE FEELINGS OF TWO FRIENDS OF JESUS

The bodies of those condemned to crucifixion were judged unworthy even of burial. Yet two men of standing, Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus, were concerned to protect the body of Jesus.

“How fortunate for you and me” – Joseph tells us – “that we became disciples of Jesus![73] Before I was a secret disciple. But now I have found great courage. I even approached Pilate to obtain Jesus’ body.[74] More than out of courage, I did it out of affection and joy. I am happy to have provided a new tomb hewn in the rock.[75] To all of you I say: Love our Saviour!”

Nicodemus could well add: “I first met Jesus by night. From him I was invited to be born from above”.[76] Only slowly did I come to understand his words. Now I am here to honour his body. I readily brought a mixture of myrrh and aloes.[77] But in fact Jesus did much more for me: he brought new fragrance to my life!”.

MARY SPEAKS TO OUR HEART

“John stood close to me. Beneath the cross my faith was sorely tried. As in Bethlehem and then in Nazareth, now once more I ponder these things in silence.[78] I have put my trust in God. My hope, the hope of a mother, is not spent. You too need to trust! For all of you I implore the grace of a strong faith. And for those experiencing dark days, consolation”.

LET US PRAY

Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with you.
Blessed art thou amongst women and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus.
Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners, now and at the hour of our death, Amen.

All: Pater noster… Stabat Mater

[72] Jn 19:38-40.
[73] Cf. Mt 27:57.
[74] Cf. Mt 27:58.
[75] Cf. Mt 27:60.
[76] Cf. Jn 3:2-15.
[77] Cf. Jn 19:39.
[78] Cf. Lk 2:19, 51.