Stations of the Cross, Fourth Station

Fourth Station

Jesus meets his afflicted mother

We adore You, O Christ, and we praise You,
because by Your holy Cross You have redeemed the world.

Now there were standing by the cross of Jesus his mother and his mother's sister, Mary of Cleophas, and Mary Magdalene. When Jesus, therefore, saw his mother and the disciple standing by, whom he loved, he said to his mother, "Woman, behold, your son." Then he said to the disciple, "Behold, your mother." And from that hour the disciple took her into his home. (John 19, 25 to 27)

Reflection: To what can I compare you, O daughter Jerusalem? What example can I show you for your comfort, virgin daughter Sion? For great as the sea is your distress; who can heal you? (Lam. 2, 13)

Let us pray: O blessed Lord, at your passion a sword of sorrow pierced the loving heart of your mother as Simeon had foretold. Grant that we who look back on her sorrows with compassion might receive the healing fruits of your sufferings. Amen.

Click on the picture for a link to an excellently-done corresponding page on the Catholic Stations of the Cross.