The
Carrying Of The CrossThe
Carrying Of The Cross
Isaiah: 53; 4
"Surely He hath borne our infirmities and carried our sorrows: and we have thought of Him as it were a leper, and as one struck by God and afflicted."
The two smudge marks on the dorsal image of Jesus on His Shroud, the one over His right shoulder, and the other under His left shoulder, show us how the cross piece (patibulum) of the Cross was placed on Jesus's back. It is apparent that Jesus carried only the cross or horizontal section of the Cross. This cross piece alone would weigh approximately 90 to 120 lbs. The cross piece was not planed or smooth. It was rough cut. Splints would probably of stuck Jesus in His back when He fell.
Meditation: Jesus, You carried willingly, the cross that You were to be nailed to for our redemption. Teach us to carry our crosses, given by You, for our sanctification. Send us Your angels to strengthen us.
Prayer: Eternal Father, We offer You the pain, suffering and humiliation Your Son endured while carrying His cross, in reparation of all poor sinners.