You are Not Alone

Gospel Reflection for June 9, 2025

“Standing by the cross of Jesus were his mother and his mother’s sister, Mary the wife of Clopas, and Mary of Magdala. When Jesus saw his mother and the disciple there 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.

After this, aware that everything was now finished, in order that the scripture might be fulfilled, Jesus said, ‘I thirst.’ There was a vessel filled with common wine. So they put a sponge soaked in wine on a sprig of hyssop and put it up to his mouth. When Jesus had taken the wine, he said, ‘It is finished.’ And bowing his head, he handed over the spirit.

The Blood and Water. Now since it was preparation day, in order that the bodies might not remain on the cross on the sabbath, for the sabbath day of that week was a solemn one, the Jews asked Pilate that their legs be broken and they be taken down. So the soldiers came and broke the legs of the first and then of the other one who was crucified with Jesus. But when they came to Jesus and saw that he was already dead, they did not break his legs, but one soldier thrust his lance into his side, and immediately blood and water flowed out.” (Jn. 19:25-34 NABRE)

We often have moments of feeling alone as we bear the crosses of our lives. The stresses and hardships we face tend to make us feel isolated as we suffer through these various anxieties and pains. This often happens when we’re experiencing physical or mental pain, caring for others experiencing such things, facing difficulties at work or within our families, or experiencing various other kinds of obstacles in our lives.

We must remember, however, that our crosses are just like Jesus’ cross. As He hung from the cross, suffering relentless and excruciating pain, He had those who loved Him standing right by Him. Among those who remained with Jesus, and demonstrated their immense love for Him by doing so, was His mother. Mary did not leave her Son alone. She stayed right with Him throughout His agonizing death.

Today’s Gospel reminds us that we are never alone. When we struggle and suffer, we must not be tempted to despair. Our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, is with us always, helping us to bear the weight of the crosses we face. And just like Mary was there for Jesus, she is with each one of her children also. By proclaiming Mary as John’s Mother, Jesus bestowed Mary as the Mother of all. Mary will never leave her children alone. She is with us, praying for us, and interceding for us, every step of the way throughout the burdens we carry.

Our Lord Jesus and our mother Mary are with us! We are never alone. We need only turn to them and they will lovingly and mercifully help and guide us through all that we experience.

“Come to me, all you who labor and are burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am meek and humble of heart; and you will find rest for yourselves. For my yoke is easy, and my burden light.” (Mt. 11:28-30)