Our Lady of Sorrows
Objective: Today typically in Malta we celebrate the feast of Our Lady of Sorrows. Thousands, even those who are typically lukewarm in their faith, celebrate mass at their workplace, and others walk behind the statue of Our Lady. This celebration – strangely enough only celebrated here in Malta – calls us to remember the pain that Our Lady endured as she walked faithfully and guided her Son, through it all even during His passion. Today, let us focus on the pain that others endure, much more than we think we do. Let us start by watching this short documentary:
Gospel Reading (John 19:25-27)
Standing by the cross of Jesus were his mother
and his mother’s sister, Mary the wife of Clopas, and Mary Magdalene.
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.
Watch:
Contemplate:
Can you really continue to complain and nag about your current situation?
Act: We cannot do much about many situations, yet we can at least support those who do take care of us, and sustain us in every way possible. Write a letter, or take a video of yourself whilst you show and express your deep appreciation towards your own mother, or guardian. Be specific as much as possible, take your own time, you have plenty!
Share: Once ready you can share it with her.
Reflect: Read this dialogue between God and society (you can put your own name instead of society)
Society: What about my plans?!
God: My plans for you are always better than your own. Don’t worry. I’m going to work this all out for your own good.
Society: We’re not going to get anything done!
God: That’s the point. You know how you keep spinning your wheels—always working, moving, doing—but never feeling satisfied? I’ve given you permission to stop. I’ve cleared your calendars for you! Your worth isn’t tied to busyness or accomplishment. All you have to do is take care of each other.
Society: What does this all mean?
God: It means I’m in control. It means you are human and I am God. It means I’ve given you a wonderful opportunity to be the light in a dark world. It means you are going to learn to rely on me.
Society: What are we supposed to do when we can’t leave our homes?
God: Rest. You are always so busy and overwhelmed, crying out to me weary and exhausted. Can’t you use a break from your fast-paced and over-scheduled lives? Go ahead and rest. Pray. Love your families. Be still and spend time with me.
Society: You mean we’re supposed to stay home with your family only for the rest of this time?
God: Yes. And you’re going to be just fine. This time together is a rare gift. The rush of daily life has come to a halt. Play games. Bake cookies. Work on projects you’ve never had the time for. Teach them kindness and grace. Show them how to endure difficult circumstances and steer them toward me.
Society: We better start hoarding anything we can get our hands on!
God: Prevention, yes. Precaution, yes. Preparedness, yes. But after that, it’s time to put the needs of others before your own. When you see someone in need, help them. Offer up what you have. Do not worry about tomorrow! Haven’t I always taken care of you? Now, go take care of someone else.
Society: Why is this happening?
God: To remind you that I’m in control. To bring your attention back to me. I’m bringing you together as families and neighbours. I’m showing you patience and perseverance. I’m reminding you of your purpose and priorities. Now is the time to learn and teach your children what this life is really about.
Society: We don’t know who to believe.
God: Believe in me. Trust me. Ask me for wisdom and I will surely give it.
Society: We’re scared!
God: I’ve got this and I’m with you.
