Stations of the Cross for Teachers - The Fourth Station

Jesus meets his Blessed Mother

We adore you, O Christ, and we praise you
Because by your holy cross you have redeemed the world.

Luke 2:34-35: Then Simeon blessed them and said to Mary, Jesus' mother: "This child is destined to cause the falling and rising of many in Israel, and to be a sign that will be spoken against, so that the thoughts of many hearts will be revealed. And a sword will pierce your own soul too."

Reflection: Face to face, Jesus and the Blessed Mother meet. Jesus is covered in blood, sweat, and spit, bent under the weight of the cross, subjected to angry shouts of hate. And Mary, experiencing every mother's worst nightmare that her child will suffer harm, feels the sword pierce her soul. Moving with fiercely protective love, she offers her son what she can: the comfort of her presence.

Prayer: Jesus, thank you for the gift of your Blessed Mother, who models perfect love for us. In our love for you, make us fiercely protective of you from others' scorn. And help us remember that when we are present to those who are hungry, tired, and sad, those who are difficult, stubborn, and forgetful, we are loving you.