Third Station

READING

LUKE 2:34-35

Then Simeon blessed them and said to Mary, Jesus’ mother: "This child is destined to cause the falling and rising of many in Israel, and to be a sign that will be spoken against, so that the thoughts of many hearts will be revealed. And a sword will pierce your own soul too."

PRAYER

Jesus, thank you for the gift of Mary, who models perfect love for us. In our love for you, make us fiercely protective of you. And help us remember that when we are present to those who are hungry, tired, and sad, those who are difficult, stubborn, and forgetful, we are loving you. Amen

REFLECTION: LOVE

Face to face, Jesus and the Blessed Mother meet. Jesus is covered in blood, sweat, and spit, bent under the weight of the cross, subjected to angry shouts of hate. And Mary, experiencing every mother’s worst nightmare that her child will suffer harm, feels the sword pierce her soul.

In the nightmare of this tragedy, love still persists.

The fiercely protective love of Mary for her son, offering the little she can: the comfort of her presence.

The deep love of Jesus for his mother, showing the space even amidst pain and tragedy for love to persist

Where will our love for friends, neighbours, colleagues, strangers persist today?

READING AND REFLECTION AT THE THIRD STATION

READING

PRAYER

REFLECTION: LOVE

FOURTH STATION: SIMON HELPS JESUS CARRY HIS CROSS