Standing by the cross of Jesus were his mother
and his mother’s sister, Mary the wife of Clopas,
and Mary Magdalene.
When Jesus saw his mother and the disciple there whom he loved
he said to his mother, “Woman, behold, your son.”
Then he said to the disciple,
“Behold, your mother.”
And from that hour the disciple took her into his home. (Jn 19:25-27)
Yesterday, we celebrated the Feast of the Exaltation of the Cross. Today, we observe the memorial of Our Lady of Sorrows.
If the cross was the means by which we would gain redemption, it was also the means of incredible torture and suffering, not only for those who hung upon it, but, for family and friends as well.
At the foot of Jesus’ cross stood, faithfully, His Mother, Mary. One can only imagine the incredible sorrow that pierced her heart as she saw her Son, Jesus, hanging upon the cross, in intense agony.
Before Jesus died, He entrusted His Mother, Mary, to His devoted Apostle, John. In doing so, Jesus gave His Mother to us all. We call Mary our Mother and we ask her to intercede for us before the throne of her Son, Jesus.
In the midst of incredible pain, there was incredible love. In dying, Jesus would give the world not only resurrection, but, His Mother as well.
FAITH ACTION: If at all possible, pray the rosary today, most especially, the Sorrowful Mysteries. If you do not have time for the entire rosary, pray the fifth sorrowful mystery: The Crucifixion. Imagine yourself standing at the foot of the cross, next to Mary. Hear the Lord’s words entrusting you to her care.