Sorrowful Mysteries Reflection

1. The Agony in the Garden: Jesus and his disciples went to the Garden of Olives following the Last Supper. Jesus realized that great suffering awaited him. In his prayer he said, “not my will, but your will be done.”

As we face challenges and difficult situations, let us trust that God is with us and will guide our way.

2. The Scourging at the Pillar: After his arrest, Pilate had his guards severely whip Jesus. Such brutal and cruel treatment that Jesus endured is unimaginable.

Let us turn to the Prince of Peace as we strive to end all forms of corporal punishment in our homes, our society, and our world.

3. The Crowning of Thorns: Jesus is tortured and mocked with a painful crown of thorns.

It is heartbreaking to envision the suffering and humiliation thrust upon Jesus. May we be mindful of our words and actions to avoid causing hurt or humiliation to others.

4. The Carrying of the Cross: Jesus is forced to carry the cross on which he will be crucified. A man named Simon of Cyrene was pressed into service to help carry the cross.

We all have crosses to bear in our lives. May we be mindful that Jesus walks with us as we face the challenges in our lives. May we also be generous and willing to walk with those around us who struggle with the crosses they must bear.

5. The Crucifixion: Jesus dies painfully on the cross.

In the Gospel of John (15:12-13), Jesus told his disciples, “This is my commandment: love one another as I have loved you. There is not greater love than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.”

We may never be called to lay down our lives, but there are countless ways we can reach out to others in need, to others who are hurting.

May the compassion that was shown by Jesus guide us in our daily lives.