Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe, 12 December 2020
In today’s reflection, Waiting in Joyful Hope author Michelle Francl-Donnay reflects on Revelation 12:1 and Our Lady’s words to Saint Juan Diego on Tepayac Hill, encouraging us to seek her help.
In the comments section below, share your own response to today’s scripture, Francl-Donnay’s reflection, or the accompanying meditation prompt.
Why is it that Mary appears to the most simple and least likely? Is it for the same reason that the Lord chooses the weak and makes them strong in bearing witness to Him? Perhaps it’s through such childlike faith or personal vulnerability that opens us to new and amazing possibilities. A mother’s encouragement at times and consolation at other points along our earthly pilgrimage seems to be exactly what the human heart needs. Just to think that the Mother of God wants to be our mother – that she who cared for the Infant Christ and held His body at Calvary cares for us and holds us with loving embrace! This son is grateful for his Mother.
As an Italian Catholic, my grandmother raised me to pray to the Blessed Virgin Mary, to seek her out whenever I needed help from her Son. I cannot count the number of times I have prayed the Memorare. The rosary, too, has been a source of comfort, insight and wisdom. No, this is not worship, but veneration; a deep respect for a woman who is not only Theotakos, Mother of God, but also my mother. Sometimes it’s just easier talking to Mom. Many have lost mothers this year. Please remember Jesus shared His mother with all of us. She is especially there for you.
I am not in the habit of asking Mary to intercede for me with her Son. I do pray the Rosary daily. Mary comes to my mind when a woman, family member or friend is suffering usually from the loss of a child. I think of Mary’s sorrows and know she understands and will comfort that person. How generous of Jesus to share His mother with us.