Weekly Reflection 9/15/2023:
This week has been full of ups and downs. Perhaps you have had the same type of experience that I have during this week; you know, one of those where you never quite know what's coming next. Today's Gospel focuses on the Blessed Virgin standing in sorrow in front of the cross. When we think about it in comparison to this, our lives just aren't so bad are they? Sure, we have deadlines to keep and requirements (no matter how aggravating they may be) to adhere to but not too many of us are accepting the crucifixion of our perfect child for the greater good of all mankind.
During hall-prayer with the Junior High students yesterday, I shared with them a recent Gallop Poll which found that 74% of all Americans believe in God, but only 59% believe in hell. The students, much like me, were very surprised by this. Given this knowledge, it should be no surprise to us that world is the way it is...there is simply no consequence in the minds of Americans: i.e., "I want what I want, and I'm entitled to it regardless I believe in all things reward, and no things consequence."
Today is the Feast of Our Lady of Sorrows and, as Mary stood there at the foot of the cross looking up at her son and knowing that He was bearing the consequence of sin for us all, I can't possibly fathom how broken her heart must have been. As we celebrate the Feast of Our Lady of Sorrows, let us remember the sacrifice that was made for the salvation of our souls, and pray for all those who do not recognize the consequence of sin.
"For if you turn again to the LORD, your brothers and your children will find compassion with those who led them captive, and will come again into this land, because the LORD your God is gracious and merciful, and will not turn away his face from you if you return to him." — 2 Chronicles 30:9
Principal
Our Lady of Mount Carmel Regional Catholic