Station 13, Day 1

Station 13, Day 1

Jesus Dies on the Cross

It was now about noon, and darkness came over the whole land until three in the afternoon, while the sun’s light failed; and the curtain of the temple was torn in two. Then Jesus, crying with a loud voice, said, “Father, into your hands I commend my spirit.” Having said this, he breathed his last. Luke 23:44-45

Meditation

            The symbolism of the torn curtain in the Temple at the 13^th Station of the Cross is significant. This heavy curtain separated the area containing the Holy of Holies, which was where God was believed to reside. The area behind the curtain was only accessed on one day per year – the Day of Atonement – and then only by the High Priest. The curtain separated humanity from divinity, so when the curtain was torn at Jesus’ death, access to God was symbolically granted to all. A heavy curtain separating this life from the next was torn, so there would be separation no more.

            Jesus came to earth to make God known to us. When Jesus died and the curtain was torn, we not only had the example of God in Jesus, but actual access to God, who previously could only be accessed through the High Priest.

Spiritual discipline

Fast for the next 3 days by waking up and starting your day 15 minutes earlier than usual, using the time for study, reflection, and prayer. When you wake up and realize it is early, remember the curtain being torn in the Temple as Jesus breathed his last breath. Whenever you feel tired throughout the day, remember Jesus, giving up his spirit to God. As you prepare for bed in the evening, feeling more tired than usual, remember the direct access you now have to God, and be thankful.

Prayer

            Almighty Lord, through the example of your life, I know more about God and what God expects of me. Through your death, I have access to you and God through prayer and meditation. Nothing can restrict that access, and for that, I am thankful. Amen.

This is the 41^st in a daily series titled The Stations of the Cross that will run through Easter 2026, at which time I will return to my weekly Life Notes. Life Notes are my explorations into mysteries that interest me. They are invitations for readers to explore more deeply into life’s mysteries. Engage with me or explore contemplative spiritual direction at ghildenbrand@outlook.com.