Many donkeys have a cross-shaped mark across their backs.

Everyone knows that the little gray donkey carries a cross on his back. Most people don't know the legend of the donkey's cross. The story is told that the little donkey that had been Jesus' mount on Palm Sunday came to the hill of Calvary. Seeing the tragic event occurring there, he wished with all his heart that he had been able to carry the cross for Jesus. He was the proper one to carry heavy burdens.

The donkey turned his back on the sight, but he could not leave. He wished to stay until all was over because of his love for Jesus. In reward for the loyal and humble love of the little donkey, the Lord caused the shadow of the cross to fall across his back and left it there for the donkey to carry forevermore as a sign that the love of God, no matter how humble, carries a reward for all to see.