Simeon blessed them and said to Mary his mother, ‘Behold, this child is appointed for the fall and rising of many in Israel, and for a sign that is opposed (and a sword will pierce your own soul also), so that thoughts from many hearts may be revealed.
Talaso, in northern Kenya
We adore you, O Christ, and we praise you,
because by your Holy Cross you have redeemed the world.
This was the fulfilment of Simeon’s prophecy, the sword that ran through Mary’s soul. She who nurtured Jesus as a baby, witnessed his first steps and words, now meets her son on this final journey. What pain Mary must have felt, unable to reach out to help or comfort Jesus. Yet she remains present and steadfast.
So many mothers throughout the world grieve, as they struggle to feed their hungry children or access vital medicines and healthcare.
“It’s very distressing to be unable to feed your children,” says Talaso from drought-stricken Marsabit in Keyna. “As a mother, that’s the most distressing thing of all.”
Let us look to the example of Mary and not turn our faces away from those who are suffering.
Compassionate Jesus,
you gave us your mother
and entrusted us to her care.
May we stand with those who suffer
offering comfort and assistance.
Amen.
Every Friday we send a reflection based on the Sunday gospel with inspiring prayers, and ways to put your faith into action.
