The Altar of repose for the watching on Maundy Thursday
“Becoming a “man of sorrows”, Jesus established a new solidarity of God with human suffering. The Eternal Son of the Father, in communion with him in his eternal glory, in becoming man was careful not to claim privileges of earthly glory or at least exemption from pain. Instead, he entered on the way of the cross. He chose as his path both the physical and moral sufferings which accompanied him unto death. All this was for love of us, to give us the decisive proof of his love, to make reparation for our sins, and to lead into unity those who had been scattered abroad. All this was because Christ’s love reflects God’s love for humanity.
Pope St John Paul 2
