Station 12, Day 1

Station 12, Day 1

Jesus entrusts Mary and John to each other

Meanwhile, standing near 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 whom he loved standing beside her, he said to his mother, “Woman, here is your son.” Then he said to the disciple, “Here is your mother.” And from that hour the disciple took her into his own home.  John 19:25-27

Meditation

            At the 12^th Station of the Cross, standing at the foot of his cross, are Jesus’ mother, his aunt, and his friend – all named Mary. No doubt, they are overwhelmed with sorrow and a sense of utter powerlessness. Particularly in Jesus’ day, women had little social standing anyway, but on this particular day they must have felt invisible. They had followed Jesus along the Via Dolorosa to Golgotha. They had witnessed the flogging, the mocking, and the tortured steps along the way with the cross.

            Perhaps Jesus felt some relief knowing that not everyone who loved him had deserted him in his final hours. At least these three women remained with him to the end.

Spiritual discipline

Fast for the next 2 days by substituting water for whatever beverage you most commonly drink during the day. When you desire a cup of coffee, tea, or soda, remember Jesus, arranging for the care of his mother. When you miss your caffeine energy boost, remember Jesus, sleepless and thirsty on the cross.

Prayer

            Jesus, my Savior, I pray you received some comfort in seeing your mother, aunt, and friend at the foot of your cross. I pray you receive some comfort today, as I kneel with them at the foot of your cross, a witness to the power manifested in your death. Amen.

This is the 39^th in a daily series titled The Stations of the Cross that will run through Easter 2026, at which time I will return to my weekly Life Notes. Life Notes are my explorations into mysteries that interest me. They are invitations for readers to explore more deeply into life’s mysteries. Engage with me or explore contemplative spiritual direction at ghildenbrand@outlook.com.