The Sorrowful Mysteries
Five scenes from the life of Jesus and Mary. Hold one in mind through each decade, and let its fruit take root in yours.
The Agony in the Garden
Matthew 26:36–46
Night in Gethsemane. Jesus sweats blood and asks the Father to take the cup away, then prays the words that save the world: “Not my will, but yours be done.” His friends sleep.
The fruit of this mystery: Sorrow for sin
The Scourging at the Pillar
John 19:1
Pilate, hoping to satisfy the crowd, has Jesus whipped at a stone pillar. The Innocent bleeds for the guilty and says nothing.
The fruit of this mystery: Purity
The Crowning with Thorns
Matthew 27:27–31
Soldiers twist thorns into a crown and press it into his head, drape him in purple, and kneel in mockery: “Hail, King of the Jews.” He is, in fact, the King.
The fruit of this mystery: Courage
The Carrying of the Cross
Luke 23:26–32
Condemned, Jesus shoulders the cross through the streets of Jerusalem. He falls. Simon of Cyrene is pulled from the crowd to help him, and the women of the city weep as he passes.
The fruit of this mystery: Patience
The Crucifixion
Luke 23:33–46
Nailed between two thieves, he forgives his executioners, gives his mother to John, and hands over his spirit: “Father, into your hands I commend my spirit.”
The fruit of this mystery: Perseverance