were you there? mary the mother of jesus

Near the cross of Jesus stood his mother, his mother’s sister, Mary the wife of Clopas, and Mary Magdalene. When Jesus saw his mother there, and the disciple whom he loved standing nearby, he said to her, “Woman, here is your son,” and to the disciple, “Here is your mother.” From that time on, this disciple took her into his home. John 19:25-27, NIV

Mary standing at the foot of the cross, embodies the deepest of sorrows. Her heart, pierced with grief, mirrors the physical wounds of her son. She witnesses the ultimate sacrifice, her love tested beyond measure. In her silent suffering, we see the profound cost of love—the pain of bearing witness to injustice and the helplessness of seeing her child endure such agony. Mary’s strength is not in defiance but in her unwavering presence. She stands as a testament to faith amidst despair, accepting God’s divine plan with a heart broken yet resolute. Lent calls us to reflect on Mary’s sorrow, to find strength in her quiet endurance, and to trust in God’s love even in the face of immense suffering.

Prayer:
Lord, as I reflect on Mary’s sorrow help us to stand firm in faith when I face my own trials. Give me the strength to endure, trusting in your plan, even when I don’t understand. May I learn from Mary's quiet courage and find comfort in knowing that your love is with me through every moment of suffering. Draw me closer to you. Amen.