The Catholic Calendar for Tuesday, May 31, 2005
Feast of the Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary

Scripture from today's Liturgy of the Word:
Zephaniah 3:14-18
Isaiah 12:2-6
Luke 1:39-56

A reflection on today's Sacred Scripture:

In today’s gospel reading, we hear the wonderful Magnificat, the prayer of the Blessed Virgin Mary that is recited in the evening prayer from the Liturgy of the Hours each day. We hear this powerful message not only in the Liturgy, but in song and in our scripture reading as well. But have we ever really stopped to realize what Mary is telling us in her message?

Here are the facts. Mary was an "unwed" mother, probably very young by today’s standards. She faced possible stoning for this under the laws of the time. At the very least, she might be cast out and ostracized. She most certainly knew what her pregnancy would bring over the course of her son’s life; and as a result that, her life, would be full of trials, testing, suffering and pain. And what did she do?

She rejoiced, saying, “My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord; my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for he has looked with favor on his lowly servant.” There was no complaining, no fear, no sorrow--only gladness and joy. This is why Mary is such a wonderful model and inspiration for us all. She showed total faith in her God in the face of potential trouble and she rejoiced.

Let us join in Mary’s prayer today with a new realization that the Lord is truly with us, regardless of the circumstances we face.

- Don Claunch, SFO
(dlclaunch at bresnan dot net)

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