The Second Station of the Cross: Reflecting the Good News of Christ

Courtesy: Vatican Museum

"Just as he was speaking, Judas, one of the Twelve, appeared. With him was a crowd armed with swords and clubs, sent from the chief priests, the teachers of the law, and the elders. Now the betrayer had arranged a signal with them: 'The one I kiss is the man; arrest him and lead him away under guard.' Going at once to Jesus, Judas said, 'Rabbi!' and kissed him. The men seized Jesus and arrested him." - Mark 14:43-46 (NIV)

In the celebration of the Stations of the Cross by Pope John Paul II in 1991, the minister prayed this prayer:

"Lord, grant us the courage of our convictions that our lives may faithfully reflect the good news you bring."

Ever since the beginning of His ministry on Earth, Jesus knew Judas Iscariot was going to betray Him. He said as much at the Last Supper (see Matthew 26:23-25).

But Jesus knew the Father had said for Him to sacrifice Himself for the sins of the world, as part of His plan of salvation. Even when He was being arrested, He stopped His apostles from doing more than slicing the ear off the servant of the high priest, which he later healed (see Luke 22:49-51). Jesus wanted peace, even though He knew what His fate was going to be. However, He also knew that He would rise from the dead in three days (see John 2:18-22).

Since then, followers of Christ have done just that, bore up under intense persecution for their faith. Even today, followers in parts of Asia, Africa and the Middle East must suffer for their faith of the saving grace of Jesus Christ. However, they continue to do so in a peaceful manner, because they, like Jesus, know how the story ends.

Like the minister in the celebration said, may our lives faithfully reflect the good news that Jesus brought.

(Editor's note: This is part of a series of the Stations of the Cross.)