Station 12, Day 2

Station 12, Day 2

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

            The three women were not the only ones to remain with Jesus to the end. The disciple whom he loved, perhaps either John or Mary Magdalene, was there, too. As Jesus looked down upon them, he was concerned for the care of his mother. In that day, a woman with no husband or sons to care for her was homeless and destitute. Although Scripture tells us that Mary had other sons, Jesus pledges his mother into John’s care, and John into the care of his mother.

            Sorrow is a heavy burden to bear, especially alone. Jesus made sure John and Mary would have each other to share the load.

Spiritual discipline

Meditate for 10 minutes on this scene. Picture the three women and John at Jesus’ feet, watching him struggle for each breath, wondering which breath will be his last. Imagine yourself with them at the foot of the cross. What do you see, hear, and feel? Who is in your life to share your burdens?

Prayer

            Compassionate Lord, you cared for those you loved as long as you were able. Instead of wallowing in self-pity and despair, you looked after your loved ones, forgave your persecutors, and reassured a criminal of his salvation. Help me to learn from your example of serving others with every breath I am given. Amen.

This is the 40^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.