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Today, September 15, is the Memorial of Our Lady of Sorrows. The gospel reading for today recounts the last act of Jesus, just before he gave up his spirit.
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.
John 19:25-27
I read today’s readings after my own two adult sons left our home after a wonderful birthday celebration for my youngest, who turned 37 yesterday. My husband and I are blessed to have been given the gift of these two who, as we are aging, are slowly stepping toward the role of one day taking care of us. Today’s gospel resonated even more after having them here for the weekend.
As I reflect on the Memorial of Our Lady of Sorrows, I marvel at Mary’s life and the pains she endured. I question why God would cause her so much suffering, after creating her as a holy temple for Jesus before he was born, and then serving as his mother for 33 years before his crucifixion. She was sinless, full of God’s grace – a perfect human being. And yet she was chosen to bear a lifetime of grief.
While I, just the opposite, am a bit of a wreck. I am constantly challenging my faith, looking for proof. Anytime any little thing goes wrong, I fall apart. And yet my life has been blessed. I have never had to endure anything remotely close to what Mary lived through. It just seems that Mary should have enjoyed my strife-free life, since she was God’s perfect creation. In contrast, with all of my flaws, I should be living a life of sorrows.
By the grace of God, I am not. In fact, sometimes I can’t imagine Heaven being any better than my life here on Earth. Mary’s example of perfect faith is truly an inspiration.
Here is today’s USCCB daily video reflection by Msgr. James Vlaun on the Memorial of Our Lady of Sorrows.
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