The Calvary scene from the Gospel of John, which depicts Mary at the foot of the cross, holds special significance for our Marianist Family. Mary’s presence at the foot of the cross confirmed her faith and belief in what God had promised her at the Annunciation, even when things felt impossible. At this moment, everything seems to have been lost; her son has been accused, sentenced to death, and nailed to the cross, where he struggled for breath. We can only imagine the emotions and thoughts running through her mind, but she doesn’t collapse in a heap. She is not a dejected woman. She stands courageously beneath the shadow of the cross because she knew this had to be. Pope John Paul II noted:
The “yes” spoken on the day of the Annunciation reaches full maturity on the day of the cross, when the time comes for Mary to receive and beget as her children all those who become disciples, pouring out upon them the saving love of her Son.
As she did at the beginning of Jesus’ life, Mary “treasured up all these things, pondering them in her heart” (Lk 2:19). Like Mary, we should be hopeful, especially when situations seem desperate. For us, Mary models hope, perseverance, and contemplation as we seek to understand and be transformed by Jesus’ saving actions. We are called to imitate this faith during the Easter Triduum.
At the foot of the Cross, by the command of our blessed Lord, the Apostle John received Mary as his mother. John represents us and the whole Church. All of us received the divine gift of having Mary as our mother. These days, as we ponder Jesus’ Passion, it is a moment to receive anew the gift of Mary’s maternal care for each one of us. Jesus gives us Mary as our mother. “Son, behold your mother…” (Jn 19:26-27). May Mary always bring us closer to Jesus.
With this reminder at the forefront of our minds this month, we encourage you to reflect on the following questions:
- How does Mary’s witness influence you to embrace hope, perseverance, and contemplation this Easter Triduum?
- How is Mary guiding you closer to Jesus as we encounter his passion, death, and resurrection?
If you'd like to reflect further on Mary at the Foot of the Cross, we encourage you to utilize Lenten Meditation #4: Three O’Clock Prayer Guided Meditation.
Pope John Paul II, Evangelium Vitae, § 103. https://www.vatican.va/content/john-paul-ii/en/encyclicals/documents/hf_jp-ii_enc_25031995_evangelium-vitae.html
Art by Bro. Charles Wanda, SM, 1935-2016, from the collection of the National Archives Marianist Province of the US.