O Mary of Promise

Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception 2014

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Gospel of Luke 1:26-38

The angel Gabriel was sent from God to a town of Galilee called Nazareth, to a virgin betrothed to a man named Joseph, of the house of David, and the virgin’s name was Mary. And coming to her, he said, “Hail, full of grace! The Lord is with you.”

On Monday evening, my parish celebrated a beautiful mass in honor of the Feast of the Immaculate Conception.  The choir sang the beautiful  hymn "O Mary of Promise" which moved me in a way that no other hymn has in a long time.  I felt like Our Blessed Mother spoke to me intimately:  "Dearest Jennifer, please do not be anxious and worried.  I'm here for you.  Keep praying and remain faithful.  Jesus and I love you very much!  I give you my promise that things will work out. Do not be afraid! We will always be close to you!"

After holy communion, I prayed imagining our Blessed Mother at the foot of the cross with tears streaming from her eyes.  It was thirty three years ago she gave birth to Jesus.  Now he hung there on the cross in pain and agony.  How is a mother supposed to cope with such tragic loss?  Why did things go so terribly wrong?

Jesus was free of original sin just like his Mother Mary.  Yet, Christ's enemies only saw him as a threat to the political authority, using their own sinful nature to put him to death.  Could Mary have saved Her Son? Sadly no.  She instinctively knew Jesus would live a short life.  However, within that life he'd convert thousands to God and heal thousands in the process.

Mary is a mother of promise, fidelity, and strength.  When we turn to her for intercession, we know we will be well taken care of.  What better person to understand our struggles and burdens?  Holding rosary beads while saying "Hail Mary, a Full of Grace" brings about peace and a sense of hope.  Hope that we will learn to accept our challenges with humility and strength.

Holy Immaculate Mary, Pray for us!

-J.