Our Lady of Sorrows

Think about it this way. How would you respond if someone told your parents shortly after your birth that you would suffer greatly? More, how would you feel about fleeing your home town and country because your child's life was in danger? What would it be like to stand by as your son is executed by being nailed to a cross? All of this and more was Mary's fate after being assured by the angel that God had chosen her for an incredible role! One might be tempted to wonder about listening to God ever again, or as St Teresa of Avila famously said: "If this is how you treat your friends, no wonder you have so few."

Mary, the Mother of Sorrows, has always been the subject of popular devotion because so many people, especially women, can identify with her pain and loss. One of the patrons of abused women, Mary''s life invites everyone who has suffered to approach her for consolation and companionship. Highlighted in the scriptures as a compassionate mother, especially towards the young couple at the wedding feast of Cana who were running out of wine, Mary reminds us that even in our afflictions, God is near, walking with us.

Today, ask Mary to help you not run away from loss, but walk through it with you.

What do you most need when you are in pain or suffering?