Today I experienced a different Good Friday—one that I didn’t just observe, but one in which I walked, carried, and offered.
I had the grace to participate in the procession of the Nazarene from the Santa María del Encinal quasi-parish, sharing with the community, with friends, and with two priests who are examples of what it means to be missionaries and people devoted in body and soul to Jesus and the Church, feeling the faith of every brother and sister walking beside me.
But I also experienced it with my family, who were my support at every moment.
My wife, with every loving glance, gave me the strength to keep going; and every time she shared a sip of water with me, I felt her care and her companionship, in a simple yet deeply meaningful gesture.
My children also walked with me on this journey of faith.
I was blessed to carry the burden alongside my eldest son, sharing the effort and commitment, and my youngest son, with every hug, reminded me of something very deep and true:
“You are not alone.”
Carrying Jesus on my shoulders was more than a physical act; it was a profound spiritual experience.
With every step I felt the weight of the cross, but I also felt the love He had for us.
The weariness in my feet, the pain in my arms and back, gradually turned into a silent offering, a simple way of saying to Jesus:
“Here I am, Lord, walking with you.”
It wasn’t easy, but in the midst of the effort, I understood that sacrifice can also be prayer.
Every drop of sweat, every moment of fatigue, every deep breath, was transformed into an act of love and gratitude.
And when 3:00 p.m. arrived—the time for the Adoration of the Cross—I experienced something new in my life.
It was the first time I had participated in this sacred act, and it was a beautiful experience, filled with silence, respect, and deep reflection.
As I contemplated the Cross, I recalled the passion and death of Jesus Christ, and a sincere gratitude was born in my heart for the sacrifice he made for all of us.
Today I understood that being a layperson is not just about attending or participating, but about giving oneself, serving, accompanying, and walking with Jesus among the people.
Being a layperson is living the faith with weary feet, busy hands, and a willing heart.
This Good Friday I didn’t just remember it… I lived it.
I lived it in community, with friends, with inspiring priests; I lived it with my family; I lived it in service; I lived it in the pain I offered and in deep gratitude.
And at the end of the day, though my body is tired, my soul is at peace, because I know that every step I took, every effort I offered, was a small token of love for the One who gave His life for us on the Cross.
Thank you, Lord Jesus, for your sacrifice, for your infinite love, and for allowing me to walk with you on this Good Friday, accompanied by my family, my community, and our priests, who were a reflection of your presence and your love in every moment.
CLM Guatemala
