Our Lady of Sorrows

1 Tim. 1:1-2.12-14, Jn 19:25-27. At the third stations, we reflect on the fact that it is easier to bear our own pains than to bear the pains of our dear ones. The same is true as Mary bore the pain of agony of Jesus on the Cross. The Feast of our Lady of Sorrows, proclaimed in Cologne (1413), reflect the sorrows of Mary as regards the passion of Christ. So, we reflect on the sorrows of Mary a day after the exaltation of the Holy Cross. She gave her heart to her Son and when her Son’s body was broken, Mary’s heart was broken.

The Pieta captures the seven sorrows of Mary: Simeon’s prophecy about the sword of sorrow (Lk. 2:34-35), the flight of Joseph, Mary and Jesus into Egypt (Mt. 2:13), the loss of the Child Jesus in the Temple (Lk. 2:43-45), Mary meets Jesus on the way to Calvary (Lk. 23:26), Jesus dies on the Cross (Jn 19:25), Mary receives the Body of Jesus in Her Arms (Mt. 27:57) and the Body of Jesus is placed in the Tomb (Jn 19:40). In today’s Gospel Simeon prophecy: Jesus is ‘destined to be a sign that is rejected’ and, as for Mary, “a sword will pierce your own soul also.” When our own heart breaks because of love we can look to Our Lady of Sorrows as our inspiration and our support.

May the Lord continue to help us in our journey of faith towards the Throne of God’s love and mercy! Amen!! Have a great day!!!