The Solemnity of Mary the Mother of God - Luke 2:16-21
Today we begin a new year according
to the secular calendar. And even though much of the rest of the world has
begun “de-decking” the Christmas decorations, the Church continues to celebrate
the Christmas season. The Gospel for this Feast of Mary, Mother of God is the
account of the shepherds traveling to Bethlehem to give homage to the Child
Jesus.
How did the shepherds know where to
find the child Jesus? In those days, there was no GPS system to guide them on
their trip. However the shepherds did have a brilliant star to lead them
to Jesus. After worshipping the Child Jesus, the shepherds departed and
spread “the good news that a child had been born.” Interestingly enough, no one
questioned the shepherds’ announcement; rather, everyone who heard the
announcement were filled with joy and amazement.
One of the most profound statements
in this Gospel is: “Mary kept all these things in her heart and pondered them.”
What is in your heart that you ponder? It may be an event, occasion, or
encounter that brought you great joy. Or perhaps you may reflect on a
difficulty or challenge in your life. In today’s fast-paced world, we need to
choose to deliberately ponder and reflect on our lives. Pondering is not
always easy. When we are hurting or feeling alone, the last thing we may want
to do is to reflect on our pain or loss. It may be more comfortable to simply
numb the pain. Yet God invites us to ponder our gifts, our joys, and our
sorrows.
At various times Mary experienced
the gamut of emotions in her life: from great joy to confusion as well as great
sorrow or loss. Mary deeply experienced the joys and sorrows that life
holds. Pray to Mary; her presence and strength may gift us with a peace
that will calm our hearts and our minds.
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