The First Station: Jesus is Condemned to Death by Crucifixion.
We Adore You O Christ and we Praise You: Because by Your Holy Cross, You have Redeemed the World.
Jesus is Condemned to Crucifixion
Scripture: “Again Pilate addressed them, still wishing to release Jesus, but they continued their shouting, “Crucify Him! Crucify Him!” Pilate addressed them a third time, “What evil has this Man done? I found Him guilty of no capital crime.Therefore I shall have Him flogged and then release Him.” With loud shouts, however, they persisted in calling for His crucifixion, and their voices prevailed.
The verdict of Pilate was that their demand should be granted. So Pilate released the man who had been imprisoned for rebellion and murder, for whom they asked, and he handed over Jesus to them to deal with as they wished. (Luke 23:20-25).
Book 3, Chapter 48: The Day of Eternity and of the Miseries of This Life.
Oh how I suffer inwardly, while with the mind I consider Heavenly things, and presently a crowd of worldly things rushes upon me while I pray. My God, be not far from me (Ps. 71:12), nor depart in wrath from Your servant (Ps. 27:9). Cast forth Your lightning and scatter them. Send out Your arrows, (Ps. 144:6) and let all phantoms of the enemy be put to flight.
Prayer: Jesus, You proclaimed the Truth of Your Father. This threatened the powers of the world, and they
conspired to kill You by torturing You and hanging You on a Cross with nails and ropes and shackles. Help us to pray for the courage to stand faithful to You in the hour of accusation. It is hard to pray when the world is abusing us. Help us to keep our eyes on You and imitate You. Amen.