Spiritual Affirmation

Lenten 14 Stations of Self-Reflection

by Rachel McCave

This Holy Week, we would like to guide you on a journey of self-reflection: #14StationsofSelf. Inspired by the 14 Stations of the Cross, this exercise is meant to provide a meditative spring cleaning for the soul as we follow the story of the final days of Jesus’ life. Grab a pen and paper to write down anything that comes up while you answer these questions. We encourage you to follow along on social media and share these prompts with your family and friends as part of your Lenten commemoration. If you would like to print these images, you can download this PDF.

In station one, Jesus is praying in the garden of Gethsemane when he becomes overwhelmed by the thought of his fate. He asks his disciples to hold a vigil with him while he grapples with his sorrow. What part of you is eager and ready for anything in God?

In station two, Jesus is betrayed by Judas, arrested and deserted by everyone. How does solitude make you feel? How have you coped with feelings of loneliness during the Covid-19 pandemic?

In station three, Jesus is summoned by the chief of priests and is asked if he is the Messiah. Already knowing his fate, he also knows how they would respond. What allows you to remain steadfast in your faith when you are tested?

In station four, Peter denies that he knows Jesus and later weeps with remorse when he remembers that Jesus anticipated this would happen. Think back to the last time you may have done something wrong. Did you hold yourself accountable?

In station five, Jesus is further questioned and wrongly accused by Pilate, but he still does not answer because he knows his truth. When was a time that you were unfairly judged? How did you cope with the situation and would you do anything differently?

In station six, Jesus is ridiculed and a crown of thorns is placed on his head. Reflect on a challenge you may have had this year. What happened and how did you overcome it? What helped you move forward?

In station seven, Pilate yields to the demands of the people to crucify Jesus, even though he finds no guilt in him. When it feels like the weight of the world is on your shoulders, what gives you strength to keep moving forward?

In station eight, Simon helps Jesus carry his cross. When was a time that you showed up for others? How?

In station nine, Jesus shows compassion for a group of women mourning his impending fate and he warns them of the future. How do you mentally, physically and spiritually prepare to be a co-creator in your life?

In station ten, Jesus is crucified and asks God to forgive them: “Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.” Forgiveness includes letting go. Who is someone you need to forgive? Is it yourself? How does it feel to let go of those feelings?

In station eleven, Jesus speaks with two criminals who are also being crucified: one tells Jesus to save them and himself while the other asks Jesus for grace, to remember him in the kingdom of heaven. When was the last time you were shown grace? And the last time you showed someone else grace?

In station twelve, Jesus speaks to his mother and a trusted disciple and tells them that they are now family and must take care of each other. When was the last time you felt cared for? What is something you do to take care of yourself?

In station thirteen, Jesus cries out, “Father, into your hands I commit my spirit” as he takes his final breath. He surrenders and gives his life for all of us. What do you think would happen if you let go of control? Do you trust that your life is guided?

In station fourteen, Jesus’ body is wrapped in clean linen cloth and placed in a tomb. After three days, he is resurrected and rises from the dead in a divine transformation. How have you changed in the past year? What are you proud of?

We hope this week of reflection added more peace, love and light to your Lenten commemoration. Thank you for taking this journey with us!