Verse: We adore You, O Christ, and we praise You. Response: Because by your holy Cross You have redeemed the world.
Scripture: Lord, when did we see you hungry, and feed you; or thirsty and give you drink? And when did we see you a stranger, and take you in; or naked and clothe you? Or when did we see you sick, or in prison, and come to you?” And answering the king will say to them, “Amen, I say to you, as long as you did it for one of these, the least of my brethren, you did it for me.” Matthew 25: 37 - 40
Reflection: Jesus, suddenly a woman comes out of the crowd. Her name is Veronica. You can see how she cares for you as she takes a cloth and begins to wipe the blood and sweat from your face. Perhaps it was this small kindness that got you through. She can’t do much, but she offers what little help she can. All around us are those who are suffering and in despair. Crosses must be borne, but not without a kind word, a cup of water, or a comforting cloth. Jesus’ disfigured face resembles all those faces of men and women marred by a life which does not respect their dignity. When we reach out to embrace the presence of Jesus in each other, the image of Jesus is imprinted upon our own hearts.
Prayer: My dear Jesus, we feel your love and understanding in the consolation and support we receive from one another. Fill my heart with the spirit of Veronica and arm me with the fabric of mercy to absorb the blood, sweat, and tears of those who are in need, the least of your people.
Our Father, who art in heaven; hallowed by Thy name. Thy kingdom come; Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread and forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us; and lead us not into temptation but deliver us from evil. Amen.
Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee. Blessed art thou among 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.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit, as it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be, world without end, AMEN.