Of Crosses and Tears

Jesus is weakened by much suffering as he stumbles his way to Golgotha. Along the way, a passerby is compelled to carry Jesus's cross for him and thereby becomes a literal example of what it means to follow the crucified One. Other crowds join in the procession, among which are some women who weep over Christ's impending death. But Jesus calls them to mourn and weep over sin and unbelief—their own, as well as that of their people and city. Such unbelief and rebellion will not go unpunished, for Jesus himself prophesies of Jerusalem's fall and the anguish that will engulf those who rejected their Messiah. Yet, as with all prophecies of judgment, there is a promise of redemption for those who turn from their sins and entrust themselves into the hands of Christ. He who suffered and was raised will bring life and righteousness to all who take up their cross and follow him daily!