Full of Grace

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Simeon blessed them and said to Mary his mother, “Behold, this child is destined for the fall and rise of many in Israel, and to be a sign that will be contradicted and you yourself a sword will pierce so that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.” - Luke 2:34-35

This week we will look at the 7 Sorrows of Mary .

A joyous occasion brought Mary and Joseph to the Temple in Jerusalem forty days (inclusive) after His birth to complete Mary's ritual purification after childbirth and to perform the redemption of the firstborn son, in obedience to the Torah. The couple's steps echoed softly against the ancient stones as they carried the infant Jesus through the hallowed halls, enveloped in a moment of profound reverence and tradition.(Leviticus 12, Exodus 13:12–15, etc.). Then came the message from Simeon. “Behold, this child is destined for the fall and rise of many in Israel, and to be a sign that will be contradicted and you yourself a sword will pierce so that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.” What a bubble burst! I cannot begin to fathom the thoughts that must have raced through Joseph's mind, not to mention the profound contemplations that occupied Mary's thoughts. Mary's unwavering faith not only sustained her in accepting her divine calling but also assured her that God would continue to uphold her amidst the inevitable trials that lay ahead.

This devotion to Our Sorrowful Mother originated in the thirteenth century. It brings to mind the Sorrows that the Virgin Mother of God endured with deep compassion for the suffering and eventual death of her Divine Son. It is noteworthy that the Litany of the Seven Sorrows of Our Lady, was crafted by Pope Pius VII (1740-1823) during his period of captivity amidst the tumult of the Napoleonic Wars. It is commonly understood that sorrow is the psychological anguish or distress that emerges from the absence of a good we once had. Perhaps no one can illustrate profound sorrow better than Mary.

7 Sorrows of Mary Icon

The image of the Blessed Mother shown below portrays her with seven swords piercing her, with each sword symbolizing one of the Seven Sorrows linked to her role as the Theotokos (Greek: “God-Bearer”).

• The First Sorrow- The prophecy of Simeon (Luke 2:25-35)

• The Second Sorrow- The flight into Egypt (Matthew 2:13-15)

• The Third Sorrow- Loss of the Child Jesus for three days (Luke 2:41-50) 

• The Fourth Sorrow-Crucifixion and Death of Jesus (John 19:25-30)

• The Fifth Sorrow-The body of Jesus being taken from the Cross (Psalm 130; Luke 23:50-54; John 19:31-37)

• The Sixth Sorrow-The burial of Jesus (Isaiah 53:8; Luke 23:50-56; John 19:38-42; Mark 15:40-47)

  No one knows more than Mary that with great Joy also comes deep sorrow. However, this woman of God trusted wholeheartedly. Even in her brokenness, she placed her trust in God's plan. Her soul resounded with the greatness of the Lord, and indeed, all generations will recognize her as blessed. Blessed Mother of God, please pray for us in our time of need.

  For more information on the how to pray the 7 sorrows please check out the links below
  
  The feast of Our Lady of Sorrows on September 15th.

" Ave Maria, Totus tuus" or "Totally yours"

Keep at it! Keep praying. Love the Lord.

Peace and Grace.