26th Day of Lent

Take a few moments to study this photograph of a rose. What is its posture in relation to the rest of the bush? How does this particular rose differ from most other roses that are on the verge of blooming?

During this season of Lent, followers of Jesus spend time contemplating Jesus’ life, his sufferings, and his death on the cross. We reflect upon the truth that the King of the Universe, the Almighty and Ever-living God came to earth and lived in a posture of gentleness, meekness, and humility; he gave up His life for the forgiveness of the sins of all mankind.

The words of the following hymn are attributed to Bernard of Clairvaux, who is thought to have written them in 1153. These lyrics have stood the test of time and can be found in most hymnals still today.

Perhaps you’ll want to take a few moments to read these beautiful lyrics as a prayer as you continue to ponder upon the mystery and awe of this sacred season.

O sacred Head, now wounded,
With grief and shame weighed down,
Now scornfully surrounded
With thorns thine only crown:
How pale thou art with anguish,
With sore abuse and scorn,
How does that visage languish,
Which once was bright as morn!

What Thou, my Lord, hast suffered
Was all for sinners’ gain;
Mine, mine was the transgression,
But Thine the deadly pain.
Lo, here I fall, my Saviour;
‘Tis I deserve They place;
Look on my with Thy favor,
Assist me with Thy grace.

What language shall I borrow
To thank Thee, dearest Friend,
For this, thy dying sorrow,
Thy pity without end?
O make me Thine forever,
And should I fainting be,
Lord, let me never, never
Outlive my love for Thee.

Amen.