The Crucifixion, Léon Bonnat, c.1874, via Wikimedia Commons
Lord, you go alone to your sacrifice.
You offer yourself to death,
whom you have come to destroy.
What can we miserable sinners plead,
who know that for the deeds that we have done
you do atone?
Ours is the guilt Lord.
Why then do you suffer torture for our sins?
Make our hearts so to share in your passion,
that our fellow-suffering may invite your mercy.
This is that night of tears, and the three days of sadness,
until the day dawns with the risen Christ,
bringing joy to those who mourn.
May we so suffer with you, Lord,
that we may take part in your glory,
so that our three days of mourning passes away
and becomes your Easter joy.
Peter Abelard, 1079 – 1142, medieval French scholastic philosopher, theologian
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Seven Last Words from the Cross – traditional
Luke 23:34 Father forgive them for they do not know what they do
Luke 23:43 Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in paradise.
John 19:26-27 Woman, behold your son. Behold your mother.
Matthew 27:46 My God, My God, why have you forsaken me?
John 19:28 I am thirsty.
John 19:30 It is… finished.
Luke 23:46 Father, into your hands I commit my spirit.
prayer & verse 
