Crucifixion of Christ
Fifth Sorrowful Mystery of the Rosary
Introduction
The fifth Sorrowful Mystery of the Rosary, the Crucifixion of Jesus, as depicted in John 19:25-27, holds profound importance in Christian theology. At Golgotha, Jesus, the Son of God, willingly embraced the agony of the cross, culminating in a sacrificial act of redemption. This event is pivotal as it represents the pinnacle of God’s plan for salvation.
John 19:25-27 specifically highlights the presence of Mary, the mother of Jesus, and the apostle John at the foot of the cross. Jesus, even in the midst of his excruciating suffering, entrusted the care of his mother to John, establishing a symbolic connection between the broader Christian community and the maternal compassion embodied by Mary.
The Crucifixion is significant as it serves as the ultimate atonement for human sin, demonstrating God’s boundless love and mercy. Jesus’ selfless act on the cross provides believers with a path to reconciliation with God, offering forgiveness and the promise of eternal life.
By contemplating the fifth glorious mystery, Christians reflect on the transformative power of Christ’s sacrifice, recognizing the profound spiritual implications of his death. The Crucifixion stands as a testament to the depth of God’s love and the redemption offered through faith in Jesus Christ.
Scriptures of the Crucifixion of Christ
John 19:25-27
Now there stood by the cross of Jesus, his mother, and his mother’s sister, Mary of Cleophas, and Mary Magdalen.
When Jesus therefore had seen his mother and the disciple standing whom he loved, he saith to his mother: Woman, behold thy son. After that, he saith to the disciple: Behold thy mother. And from that hour, the disciple took her to his own.
Scripture Commentary
John 19:25-27: The Compassion at the Cross
In John 19:25-27, we encounter a poignant scene at the foot of the cross during the crucifixion of Jesus. This passage reveals a moment of profound compassion and care amidst the intense suffering of Christ.
The Setting: Jesus on the Cross (John 19:25)
As Jesus hangs on the cross, enduring the physical and emotional agony of crucifixion, a group of women stands nearby. The Gospel of John mentions three specific women: Mary, the mother of Jesus; Mary’s sister, also named Mary; and Mary Magdalene. These women, with hearts full of love and concern, are witnesses to the climactic events unfolding at Golgotha.
The Entrusted Disciple: John (John 19:26-27)
In this critical moment, Jesus directs his attention to the disciple whom he loved – traditionally identified as the Apostle John. Jesus sees His mother, Mary, standing nearby, and in an act of compassion and care, He entrusts her to John’s care. Jesus says to His mother, “Woman, behold your son,” and to John, “Behold your mother.”
This is a remarkable scene as Jesus, even in His final moments, thinks not only about His own suffering but also about the well-being of His loved ones. By entrusting Mary to John, Jesus establishes a new familial relationship. In a broader sense, Jesus is indicating that the community of believers, represented by John, is to care for one another as a family.
Symbolism and Spiritual Significance
Motherhood of the Church
The symbolic aspect of Mary as the mother of believers is emphasized here. Jesus is not only addressing a personal concern but is also illustrating a spiritual truth. Mary becomes a symbol of the motherhood of the Church, and John represents the community of believers.
Compassion Amidst Suffering
In entrusting Mary to John, Jesus exemplifies compassion even in the midst of His own excruciating pain. This act reflects the selflessness and care that characterize Jesus’ entire ministry.
The Community of Believers
By addressing John as “son” and Mary as “mother,” Jesus establishes a profound connection within the community of believers. This highlights the importance of mutual care and support among followers of Christ.
Personal Reflection
John, who later became a significant figure in the early Christian community, takes Mary into his home, fulfilling the responsibility entrusted to him by Jesus. This passage invites believers to reflect on the communal nature of the Christian journey and the call to care for one another as a spiritual family.
In John 19:25-27, we witness a moment of tenderness amidst the brutality of the crucifixion. It serves as a poignant reminder of Jesus’ compassion, not only for humanity’s salvation but also for the intimate and personal aspects of our lives.
Additional Text
Maria Valtorta
Maria Valtorta was an Italian writer who lived in the 20th century, born on March 14, 1897, in Caserta, Italy, and passed away on October 12, 1961. She is best known for her work “The Poem of the Man-God” (also known as “The Gospel as Revealed to Me”), which she claimed was based on visions and dictations she received from Jesus Christ.
Valtorta’s writings depict detailed accounts of the life of Jesus Christ, including his teachings, miracles, and interactions with his disciples and others. She claimed that these visions and dictations came to her in a state of mystical experiences.
“The Poem of the Man-God” has generated significant interest and controversy within Christian circles. While some believers consider it a profound spiritual work and accept its authenticity, others, including some within the Catholic Church, have raised questions about its theological accuracy and authenticity.
Despite the controversy, Maria Valtorta’s writings continue to be studied and debated by theologians, scholars, and believers interested in exploring the life and teachings of Jesus Christ from a mystical perspective.
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Charles Rogers is a resident of South Carolina and a retired computer programmer by trade. Raised in various Christian denominations, he always believed in Jesus Christ. In 2012, he began experiencing authentic spiritual encounters with the Blessed Virgin Mary, which led him on a seven-year journey at her hand, that included alcohol addiction, a widow maker heart attack and death and conversion to the Catholic Faith. He is the exclusive author and owner of Two Percent Survival, a website dedicated to and created in honor of the Holy Mother. Feel free to email Charles at twopercentsurvival@gmail.com.
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Last Publish: December 24, 2024