The second mystery of the Passion and Death of Our Lord: Jesus bears witness and is condemned to die.
On trial for his life, Jesus proclaimed that He is the Messiah, and He also referred to Himself as the Son of Man coming upon the clouds of heaven. The Jewish leadership recognized this as a claim to equality with God, and for this witness they condemned Him to death. The Christian is called to bear witness to the person and the teachings of Christ by word and by example. This witness, no matter how tactful, may bring exclusion from some groups, rejection by some individuals, or even physical suffering. If so, rejoice to be treated as Jesus was.
We pray for the courage always to bear witness to the truth of God’s revelation. Our Father
1. The high priest said to Jesus: “I order you by the living God: tell us whether you are the Christ, the Son of God.” Hail Mary
2. Jesus said to him, “You have said it. Hail Mary
3. “I say to you, hereafter you shall see the Son of Man sitting at the right hand of the power and coming upon the clouds of heaven.” Hail Mary
4. Then the high priest tore his robes and said, “He has blasphemed . . . What do you think?” Hail Mary
5. They answered and said, “He is liable to death,” and they spat in his face and struck Him. Hail Mary
6. [Then Jesus stood before Pilate who asked Him,] “Art Thou the king of the Jews?” Jesus said to him, “You are saying it.” Hail Mary
7. “My kingdom is not of this world. If it were, my followers would have fought, but my kingship is not from here.” Hail Mary
8. Pilate said to Him, “Thou art then a king?” Jesus answered, “You are saying it. I am a king.” Hail Mary
9. “That is why I was born and why I have come into the world—to bear witness to the truth.” Hail Mary
10. “Everyone who is of the truth hears my voice.” Hail Mary
Glory be
References: Matthew 26:63-67, 27:11; John 18:33-37
John F. Kippley
Seven Day Bible Rosary