As Jesus drew near Jerusalem,
he saw the city and wept over it.

luke 19:41

Luke 19:41-44

Reflection

Jesus approaches Jerusalem and weeps for the city, the people there, and what will happen to all of it.

Imagine that: Jesus weeping. It might not be an image you picture often, but is one worth pondering. Sometimes it can be difficult to imagine Jesus as someone we can relate to. After all, he is God. But he is also human, and we’re very good at relating to human emotions.

Have you ever meditated on Jesus’ sorrow? Perhaps when praying the Sorrowful mysteries of the Rosary or on Good Friday. Place yourself next to Jesus in the Gospel, where he sees beloved Jerusalem and weeps at its fate, and most likely about his imminent death there as well.

Jesus experienced human emotions just like us, especially sorrow. Sit with him today in that sadness, learning how to draw strength from it, particularly for future suffering. Sharing in his sorrow can open your heart to another dimension of our Lord that is beautiful and profound.

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Saint of the Day

Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary

As they passed through the gate, Mary’s parents inwardly offered their beloved daughter to the Lord with a fervent and devout prayer. And Mary too, in deep humility and adoration, offered herself to God. She alone perceived that the Almighty welcomed her and accepted her, for she heard a voice from Heaven saying: “Come, My beloved, My spouse, come into My Temple, where I wish thee to offer Me praise and worship.” The Life of Mary as Seen by the Mystics, Chapter 4, Presentation