Red Bird Ministries

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Overcoming Woundedness

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Reflection Two

Focus: Overcoming Woundedness- How are our wounds like Mary’s wounds? 


Opening Prayer: The Memorare

Remember, O most gracious Virgin Mary, that never was it known that anyone who fled to thy protection, implored thy help, or sought thy intercession, was left unaided.

Inspired by this confidence, I fly unto thee, O Virgin of virgins, my Mother. To thee do I come, before thee I stand, sinful and sorrowful. O Mother of the Word Incarnate, despise not my petitions, but in thy mercy hear and answer me. Amen

Quote for Reflection: 

“In my deepest wound I saw your glory, and it dazzled me.” ~Saint Augustine

Reflection: 

Like Mary, often the wounds we bear are not visible to others, but the heartache, suffering and interior unrest can be paralyzing.  Take some time to reflect on Mary’s 7 sorrows.  

The Seven Sorrows of Mary: 

  1. The prophecy of Simeon (Luke 2:25-35)- foretelling of Jesus’ Passion

  2. The flight into Egypt (Matthew 2:13-15)- Herod wanted to kill baby Jesus 

  3. Loss of the Child Jesus for three days in the temple (Luke 2:41-50)

  4. Mary meets Jesus on his way to Calvary (Luke 23:27-31; John 19:17)

  5. Crucifixion and Death of Jesus (John 19:25-30)

  6. The body of Jesus being taken from the Cross (Luke 23:50-54; John 19:31-37)

  7. The burial of Jesus (Isaiah 53:8; Luke 23:50-56; John 19:38-42; Mark 15:40-47)


Now, take some time to reflect on your own wounds (sorrows).  Some of the most common wounds of humanity are rooted in abandonment, judgment, control and loss. I strongly encourage you to get to know your wounds.  Knowing our wounds allows us to know when we are triggered and to master the ability to ‘practice the pause’ instead of reacting from the wound.  List some of your most difficult wounds to overcome below (these may be from family of origin, marriage, past relationships, loss, etc): 

We find redemptive mercy in the wounds and heart of Christ.  When we experience God’s love, we experience healing. Our wounds are brought forth and we discover that even in our woundedness, we are deeply loved.  When we encounter the grieving sacred heart of Jesus, in our brokenness and allow His mercy and love to heal us, we are redeemed.

What are your wounds? Name them. Get to know them.  Be not afraid.  Now, counteract these wounds and the lies they have caused with the Truth.  God loves you and his love has the ability to heal any wound, no matter how vast, if you allow it.