There are two Gospel readings today. One from Luke 2:33-35 tells of Mary and Joseph entering the Temple to offer their son to God. Simeon had waited a very long time for the Presentation of the Lord. Simeon shared some prophetic words to Mary when he told her about her Son Jesus … “Behold, this child is destined for the fall and rise of many in Israel, and to be a sign that will be contradicted and you yourself a sword will pierce so that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.” After more than 2000 years, we know that Simeon’s prophesy has been fulfilled.
The other Gospel reading is from John 19:25-27. Jesus was dying on the cross. Gathered around the cross were Mary His Mother, His disciple John, Mary, the wife of Clopas and Mary Magdalene. Here, these few brave souls witnessed the son, the brother, the teacher, the healer and the Lord that they love, suffer and die on a cross, crucified unjustly. 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.
At that moment, Mary became our Spiritual Mother. Mary suffered greatly for her son. Like any mother or father that may have lost a son or daughter, the pain of suffering and sorrow is great. The Catholic Church celebrates the Memorial of Our Lady of Sorrows. I think if we were able to look into the Immaculate Heart of Mary, her sorrow would overwhelm us. What makes everything so beautiful though, is that we know the end of the story.
Seeking To Reflect Jesus 