Ishmael, a blacksmith in Sierra Leone, uses a hammer to shape metal objects.
“When they came to the place that is called The Skull, they crucified Jesus there with the criminals, one on his right and one on his left.”
We adore you, O Christ, and we praise you,
because by your Holy Cross you have redeemed the world.
The soldiers drive the nails into Jesus’ hands and feet. Yet even in this moment he shows his compassion, praying for those who crucify him.
Jesus continues to be crucified in all who suffer in our world. He is present in those whom society marginalises: people who are hungry or homeless, refugees or asylum seekers. He is hurt in the exploitation of our common home, the earth and its resources.
As followers of Jesus, may we show his compassion and so be a source of hope for all our brothers and sisters, our global family, and our common home, the earth.
Prayer
Jesus, you cry out in pain.
Walk with us.
Challenge us –
when we hold people back,
when we don’t treat them with respect.
Help us to remember that everyone is equal,
that we are all made in the image of God.
Amen.
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