Mary, mother of Jesus and our mother.

Mary, mother of Jesus and our mother.

Mary, the mother of Jesus holds a special place in our Catholic faith.  We have a number of holydays and special prayers in her honour.  The Rosary has been and is a precious way of prayer for many.  So what is so special about Mary?

A quick glance at her life shows us that she gave birth to her son in poverty – many have done that. She fled as a refugee – many have done that. She lived in a village with petty gossip – many have done that.  She wondered what her son was doing with his life – many have done that.  She watched him die a horrible death – many have done that.  Through all the events of her life, both good and bad, she believed that God’s love was at work.  She lived by faith, as we do.  Whatever challenges and sufferings came her way, even if she didn’t understand, she believed that God’s love could bring goodness and holiness out of the situation.

Because she was faithful to God in all these situations, we feel that she understands the difficulties of our lives and that she cares for us as she cared for her son, Jesus.  In her all-embracing motherly love, we can see the love of God for us.   Not only is she a model of faith, she comes close to us and shepherds us with the love of God.

Loving God, we praise and thank you for giving us such a model of faith in Mary, the mother of Jesus. As Mary was guided by your Spirit may she in turn give us your wisdom and love, especially in the  dark days of suffering and confusion.  We ask this in Jesus name, confident that you will hear us.