The Cross

Mark 15:21-24

The cross was wood, and it was heavy. Because of his pain, Jesus was too weak to carry it. So the soldiers told an African man called Simon that he must carry it.

The soldiers often killed men who had done something against the law. They usually did it in a place called Golgotha. (This place is also called Calvary.) Golgotha was near Jerusalem. It was by the road. Many people passed that place.

The soldiers fixed Jesus to the cross. They used nails (sharp metal) and a hammer. They put the nails through Jesus‘ hands and feet. Then they lifted up the cross. Jesus hung from it; but he was still alive. He would remain there until he died. He would be there for about 6 hours.

The soldiers had already taken Jesus‘ clothes. They played a game; the winner got the best clothes.