Devotion to the Seven Sorrows of Our Blessed Mother allows us to share in the grief of both Mother and Son as well as to be consoled in our own sorrows.
As we pray the seven Hail Marys, we can reflect on the particular events of Mary’s life to grow in our faith and draw closer to her heart.
Hers was a sorrowful heart pierced by a sword, a heart that weeps with her Son and that weeps with us as we carry on our journey as pilgrims in this life.
Here are some brief reflections for each of the “Seven Sorrows of Mary”:
1. The Prophecy of Simeon (Luke 2:34-35)
Simeon prophesized that Mary’s heart would be pierced by a sword and that Jesus Christ would be a sign of contradiction.
As Christians living in today’s secular world, let us not be surprised whenever we encounter opposition or rejection for our faith. There will always be contradictions in the way that Jesus is perceived, and like Mary’s heart, we must prepare also for our heart to be pierced with deep sorrow. Sorrow not only for the said rejection, but sorrow for a world that continues to prefer darkness over the light of Christ.
2. The Flight into Egypt (Matthew 2:13-21)
Jesus, Mary and Joseph traveled to a far and foreign country while fleeing from persecution. They were warned by an angel and protected along the way.
Let us not be afraid in times of persecution. Instead of allowing anxiety to grip our hearts, let us pray and allow God to protect us and guide us safely in our journey.
Not everything may be comfortable, but we will never perish if we allow God to lead us wherever we may go.
3. The Loss of Jesus for Three Days (Luke 2:41-50)
There may be times when we may feel that we have also lost or are just about to lose direction in life. There may be times when we may feel empty and lost in the dark.
During such times, let us never forget that what we seek is just waiting for us where God dwells.
Let us never depart from the Church where God is always waiting for us.
4. The Carrying of the Cross (John 19:17)
Is our cross sometimes too heavy to bear? Then let us think about Jesus.
Jesus took upon Himself all the sins of the world. He understands our frailty and our pain. Know that whatever you may be going through, you are never alone.
5. The Crucifixion of Jesus (John 19:18-30)
Jesus lays down even His life for us, just to save us from everlasting death. That is how much God loves us and cares for us.
Today, this secular world crucifies Him yet again and mocks anyone who believes in Him. The world may want us to believe that this is the end of faith.
But just like our Sorrowful Mother, let us not lose faith. Let us stand beside Jesus even when times are hard and our faith will be tested to the utmost.
6. Jesus Taken Down from the Cross (John 19:39-40)
Mary is there when Jesus’ lifeless body is taken down from the cross. We, too, must bear it when it seems that faith has died in the world we’re living in.
We may not find any encouragement even from our closest friends, but Mary stays with Jesus and she stays with every believer through the most difficult times.
7. Jesus Laid in the Tomb (John 19:39-42)
Death is something we can never escape in our earthly life. And the death of our beloved ones brings us so much grief that we cannot bear it if we do not have the hope that comes from Christ. With Jesus, we believe that one day, all of those who died with the light of faith will rise again. We shall all be reunited in heaven where there will be no more parting and where God Himself shall wipe away our tears.
Praying With Our Blessed Mother
Jesus has never promised that we will never experience suffering in this life. But He gave us His mother when He was crucified upon the cross.
Whatever we may be going through, Mary stays and stands with us as she stood with Jesus even when all the world has abandoned Him.
May we be consoled in this and may we also console the Most Sorrowful Heart of Mary.
“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.” – John 19:26-27 (NABRE)
Jocelyn Soriano is the author of the book Defending My Catholic Faith.
“Always be ready to give an explanation to anyone who asks you for a reason for your hope.” – 1 Peter 3:15 (NABRE)
Get my books on other Digital Stores
You may also want to read “Why We Need to Follow Mary if We Want to Follow Christ”
Ad-Free & Subscriber Log-In