September 15, 2025 // Memorial of Our Lady of Sorrows

Read the Word // Open your Bible to today’s Gospel: John 19:25-27

Reflect on the Word // 

My heart ached when I saw the tears in my son’s eyes. He had already been going through a rough year, and now he had to deal with teenage drama. Someone whom he thought was his friend had hurt him and he was feeling the pain of the betrayal. As his mom, I had two main emotions: heartbreak at seeing my son in pain and anger at the person who caused the pain. When my heart breaks for my children or I am having a hard time forgiving, I think of today’s Gospel reading about our Lady standing at the Foot of the Cross (see John 19:25).

I can only imagine the grief that Mother Mary must have felt during Jesus’ Passion. On the road to Calvary, did Mary recall how Jesus used to toddle around as a baby, but now He was falling under the weight of the Cross? Was Mary thinking of His sweet smile that was now hidden on His bruised and bloody face? Did she close her eyes and cry out to God when His hands, which once held hers, were torn open by nails?

Yet, despite her anguish, Mary did not leave Jesus’ side. She bore the pain with Him. When Jesus spoke to Mary in regards to John, saying, “Behold, your son” (John 19:27), she willingly accepted her role as Mother, not only to John, but to all of us. She didn’t become angry or hold a grudge towards the people who sent her Son to the Cross. Instead she forgave and loved, just as Jesus taught her. 

How fortunate we are to have such a loving intercessor! When we are struggling with sorrow, missing the love of a mom, or grappling with forgiveness, we have a heavenly Mother who is eager to intercede, comfort us, and help redirect us back to her Son.  

Our Lady of Sorrows, pray for us.

Relate to the Lord // Share your sorrows with Our Lady of Sorrows today and ask for her loving intercession.