taken from LatinMass His Love endured the pain & suffering of the crucifixion, and we recall it all over again every Good Friday. I got to Assumption Church just in time as the commentator began with the Way of the Cross. I think I've missed a number of Good Friday services in the last couple of years, but the ones of my past are clear as day.

It wasn't just a guide to reflect on His ultimate sacrifice throughout the service, it was also one that brought me to wonder about how far I've drifted from my days serving in church. Listening to the commentator lead the congregation, I remember that I used to be the one behind the mic in nervousness and with a voice of confidence. It wasn't the usual commentating for weekly Masses, because somehow Good Friday has a stronger significance to me. Especially the part of the Liturgy with prompted responses from the congregation.

I miss those moments, the passion of being part of it all. It's the foundation to my life now. And despite not being involved as before, I'm thankful that it was part of my life. Because the past's experiences in serving Him helps me live every day today in strength even though I fall so often.

Those fallings have reminded me today, while following the Stations of the Cross that on His way to Golgotha, He fell three times.

taken from EWTN

If the world hates you, know that it has hated me before you. If you were of the world, the world would love what is its own. Because you are not of the world, but I have chosen you out of the world, therefore the world hates you. Remember the word that I have spoken to you: No servant is greater than his master. If they have persecuted me, they will persecute you also. (John 15:18-20)

The first fall is my realization of my failings and that I am human. If He showed His weakness and wasn't ashamed to admit it, then I must realize that it is not wrong to admit weakness.

taken from EWTN

It was our weaknesses that he carried, our sufferings that he endured, while we thought of him as stricken, as one struck by God and afflicted. But he was pierced for our offenses, crushed for our sins; upon him was the punishment that makes us whole, by his stripes we were healed. We had all gone astray like sheep, each following his own way; but the Lord laid upon him the guilt of us all. (Is. 53:4-6)

Falling a second time brings more humiliation. Why even after help from Simon, did You fall? The world teaches us that we shouldn't fail too often, that too many mistakes aren't acceptable. People would shun us after the help that this many mistakes shouldn't happen. Instead, You show me that humiliation brings humility. Not only should I accept failings, but also reject pride. Lord, if You can fall a second time and get up to move on, so can I.

taken from EWTN

I lie prostrate in the dust; give me life according to your word. I declared my ways, and you answered me; teach me your commands. Make me understand the way of your precepts, and I will meditate on your wondrous deeds. My soul weeps for sorrow; strengthen me with your words. (Ps. 118:25-28)

When He falls for a weary & painful third time, He reminds me that I am infallible as He was too. Trials, pains and sufferings don't just come once, twice, thrice... It will come numerous times in our lifetime. And we must persevere in accepting them as challenges, and rise to the occasion.

Thank you for the affirmations You sent in the people and trials that surround me, even if in haste and emotional distraught I failed to acknowledge them in the way You want me. Thank You, for reminding me.