Perhaps today should be "Mother's Day."
This is the day of Mary's Sword. The day of which Simeon spoke in Luke 2:33-35: "The child's father and mother marveled at what was said about him. Then Simeon blessed them and said to Mary, his 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."
Above is Michelangelo's Pieta where he so poignantly portrays the sorrow of Mary. On this day Mary no doubt finally fully understood the words of Simeon spoken to her and Joseph so many years before, on the day of his circumcision- a joyful day. What could have these words possibly have meant to her only eight days after giving birth?
Granted Mary's grief was unique; today is also a day to remember the countless mothers and fathers who grieve for lost children. Children lost in childbirth, to famine, and plagues. Parents grieving today for children lost in missing planes and sunken ferries. May the hope of Jesus' resurrection bring them comfort.
Beautifully said, Mary.
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