The Virgin's Martyrdom

The Virgin's martyrdom is revealed in the prophecy of Simeon as well as in the narrative of Our Lord's passion. "This child is here to be a sign of contradiction," the holy old man said of Jesus; "and you," he now speaks to Mary, "a sword will pierce your soul." Blessed Mother, a sword has indeed pierced your soul. But this was the only way it could penetrate into the flesh of your Son. Of course, after Jesus gave up his spirit, the cruel spear which opened his side could not reach his soul; but it did pierce through yours. His soul had departed, but yours could not be separated from his. Do not be surprised, brethren, if you hear that Mary is a martyr in spirit. Whoever marvels at that forgets (and he has heard it before) that Paul ranges lack of affection among the greatest crimes of the heathen, which was far from Mary's case. Far be it also from her little servants.