The Face of Jesus as it is seen from the Holy Shroud, looks somewhat sad. But at the same ' time there is an expression of resignation, and may we add, an expression of contentment for -a job well accomplished. We would like to see Him at His last word "into your hands I commend my spirit" as almost saying to the Father: "Yes, I have done everything as you commanded me, now I am coming home." It might be surprising for us to see Him so resigned, since we are accustomed to visualize Him on the Cross agonizing, with His Face expressing the torture leading Him to His death. There is a beautiful explanation. Jesus died on the cross not because He was forced to, or out of compulsion, as in the case of the thieves. Jesus died on the cross because He wanted to, in obedience to the Father, and in love for us. His prayer at the Garden of Gethsemane: "let this chalice pass from me" is the normal reaction of His human nature fearful of death. But the concluding of that prayer: "Thy will be done" reflects the willingness of accepting the challenge. So Jesus was able to remain calm and patient up to the very end, and once he had closed His eyes in death, His Face bore the expression of His love for all of us.

Particular of the Face of Jesus taken from the Holy Shroud