# Good Friday prayer by St. Paul of the Cross
*2015-04-02*

> Bill Young reflects on the significance of Good Friday through a prayer written by St. Paul of the Cross focusing on the redemptive power of suffering.

## The Way of the Cross

Today is Good Friday, and we are reading a prayer from the Living with Christ Holy Week written by St. Paul of the Cross. The prayer begins by thanking the Lord for having died on the cross for us, noting that the most fortunate person is the one who walks the way of Calvary, following Jesus, our Redeemer.

## Suffering and Glory

The prayer reminds us that if we suffer with Christ now, we shall reign with Christ in the glory of the Father. Those who endure tribulations, persecutions, and despise for the love of God are actively helping Jesus Christ carry His cross. If they persevere in this, they will partake of His glory in heaven.

## Becoming True Disciples

We are encouraged to be glad even when we are afflicted and the cross feels most heavy on our shoulders. It is in these moments that, if we suffer with the patience of Christ, we truly begin to be His disciples.

*By embracing our sufferings with patience and love for God, we join Christ in His passion and share in His eventual glory.*