Sometimes known as the Way of the Cross or the Via Crucis, this series of 14 images were developed to enable Christians to enter into Jesus’ final journey on the day of His crucifixion.
As part of the Journeys Lent devotional, Bill Crooks has reimagined the traditional stations of the cross.
Each week during Lent, we will look at a cluster of three stations and explore some of the central themes that arise from Jesus’ experience.
Week 1
We start by thinking about Pilate’s sentencing of Jesus. Nobody speaks up for Jesus. Nobody defends him. He is unjustly condemned to die.
Jesus is mocked, spat upon and struck. The soldiers make him carry a cross to the place of the Skull. The cross is heavy and Jesus becomes weak, almost ready to faint. No one helps Jesus. He faces the agony of crucifixion alone.
Week 2
We recall the individuals that met Jesus on his journey to the cross. His mother, Mary, Simon, and Veronica show practical care and kindness to Jesus in his darkest moment.
Week 3
As Jesus heads towards the cross, he stumbles twice and encounters the women of Jerusalem. Unexpectedly, he encourages the women not to weep for him but for themselves and their children.
Week 4
Jesus’ final moments find him stripped of his clothing, nailed to the cross and in deep despair. There is no light or hope as Jesus breathes his last.
Week 5
The darkest day is followed by a new dawn. Jesus’ unexpected resurrection brings hope to sufferers around the world.
