and he said to Mary, the baby’s mother,

“This child is destined to cause many in Israel to fall,

but He will be a joy to many others.

He has been sent as a sign from God,

but many will oppose Him.

As a result, the deepest thoughts of many hearts will be revealed.

And a sword will pierce your very soul.”

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– Luke 2: 34-35 (NLT)

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REFLECTION…

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Our Lord suffered on the cross for our sins,

and it is those sins which forge the sword

that causes Mary unspeakable pain.

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Jesus came to bring salvation to all

yet some of us, intent on satisfying our selfish desires, obstinately reject Him.

This is what causes Mary such pain.

This is why she cries.

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Mary knows

that Jesus is the salvation of those who accept Him with faith

and who follow Him, intent on obeying Him;

she knows that those who do so will be raised to eternal life;

she knows that those who don’t will meet their ruin and be lost, forever.

This is what pierces Mary’s heart and causes such pain.

This is why the Mother of God cries.

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REPETITIVE PRAYER FOR TODAY…

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Hail Mary, full of grace.
Our Lord is with you.
Blessed are you among women,
and blessed is the fruit of your womb, Jesus.
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Holy Mary, Mother of God,
pray for us sinners,
now and at the hour of our death.
Amen.

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