Jesus is laid in the tomb
The seventh sorrow of Mary.
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Scripture
John 19:41–42
Now in the place where he was crucified there was a garden. In the garden was a new tomb in which no man had ever yet been laid. Then, because of the Jews’ Preparation Day (for the tomb was near at hand), they laid Jesus there.
Meditation
Jesus is laid in a new tomb in a garden near the place of his crucifixion. The burial must take place before the Sabbath. John’s account is quiet and brief. The body of the Lord, lovingly prepared, is placed in the earth, and the work of those who have cared for him comes to an end.
The seventh sorrow contemplates Mary’s grief at this burial. Her Son has truly died. The Church keeps company with her in the silence of Holy Saturday, awaiting the fulfillment of God’s promise. Christ has entered death, and his Resurrection will reveal the victory of the life he gives.
Hope in the Resurrection
At a graveside, Christian hope is expressed through prayer for the dead and trust in the mercy of God. We ask Mary to accompany those who mourn, especially those facing the first days of an empty home. Pray for our departed family and friends, and for the dead who have no one to pray for them. May the risen Christ receive them into his peace and sustain those who grieve.
Prayer for this sorrow
Most Beloved Mother, whose beauty surpasses that of all mothers, Mother of Mercy, Mother of Jesus, and Mother to us all, we are your children and we place all our trust in you. Teach us to see God in all things and all situations, even our sufferings. Help us to understand the importance of suffering, and also to know the purpose of our suffering as God had intended it.
You yourself were conceived and born without sin, were preserved from sin, yet you suffered more than anybody else. You accepted suffering and pain with love and with unsurpassed courage. You stood by your Son from the time He was arrested until He died. You suffered along with Him, felt His every pain and torment. You accomplished the Will of God the Father; and according to His will, you have become our Mother. We beg you, dear Mother, to teach us to do as Jesus did. Teach us to accept our cross courageously. We trust you, most Merciful Mother, so teach us to sacrifice for all the sinners in the world. Help us to follow in your Son’s footsteps, and even to be willing to lay down our lives for others.
Follow with the Our Father once, the Hail Mary seven times, and Most Merciful Mother.