Luke 2:34-35 Then Simeon blessed them and said to his mother Mary, “This child is destined for the falling and the rising of many in Israel, and to be a sign that will be opposed so that the inner thoughts of many will be revealed—and a sword will pierce your own soul too.

Mary knew the heartache that can sometimes come with motherhood.  Her heart was no longer her own, as she was intimately connected to the heart of her son.

“Near the cross of Jesus stood his mother…”  Mary stood at the foot of the cross.  Her knees didn’t buckle from the trauma of watching her son suffer on the cross.  She remained on her feet.  And Jesus saw her, and knew her despair and her need.  Despite his pain, he placed her in the care of the beloved disciple.

We too can stand at the foot of the cross, even when we are in pain, and Jesus will meet our needs.

Jesus, my Comfort and Redeemer, my heart is sometimes overwhelmed by grief and sadness.  Help me to remember that I can find peace in You.  You have overcome this world, and through You, I can be an overcomer.  Amen ( Based on John 16:33)