Jesus was forced to carry his own cross. As he journeyed up the hill to Calvary and the weight of the cross bites into his shoulders, his mind is filled with thoughts of us. He is reminded with each step that the pain he bears will be the cause of our joy. Are we taking this joy for granted?

The crosses we carry are nothing compared to what Jesus had to bear. Jesus calls on us who are strong to bear the scruples of those who are weak, to not judge or condemn them. That is why at times, we do things for love of family and friends, even though sometimes it hurts. And it hurts more when they fail to say thank you. How many of us are thankful to Jesus for the heavy cross he endured for us? How do we show our thankfulness?