Reflection

Now talk to Jesus. Tell him how difficult you find it that you are not suddenly consoled or feeling "blessed" because you are mourning.

Let the Holy Spirit illumine your heart and help you to realize that God understands your confusion and pain. Jesus wept at the thought of his death. And the Mother of Sorrows had a sword of pain that pierced her heart.

Cry out with Jesus, "My God, my God, why have you abandoned me." And be silent. Stay in the presence of God for a little while longer and then conclude:

Concluding Prayer

Dear Jesus,
gazing on your cross
I am aware that you have endured
more than I ever will.
But God, it hurts.
I am lonely. I am afraid. I am empty.
I don't know where to turn except to you.
Speak, Lord, your servant hears.
Fill my heart with your love and consolation
so that I can go on.
Some days I am desperate.
Holy Mother Mary,
how did you ever stand
at the foot of the Cross agonizing
as your Son's life ebbed before your eyes?
Help me to carry this cross.

Recommended Reading

Scripture

Links

• II Corinthians 1:3-4
• Psalms: 22, 63, 86,102

• James G Emerson,
  Suffering, Its Meaning and Ministry
• Richard J. Gilmartin, Suffering
• Lucien Richard,OMI,
  What Are They Saying About
  the Theology of Suffering?
• Susan Ann Muto,
  Blessings that make us be
• C.S.Lewis, A Grief Observed
• Frederick Buccaneer,
  The Eyes of the Heart

• Pope John Paul II,
  On the Christian Meaning
  of Suffering
• Analysis of CS Lewis books on grief and pain

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