Reflective Moments with Angela

May: Behold Your Mother

All of us are accustomed to honoring our mothers, living and deceased, on Mothers’ Day during May. It is fitting to celebrate all mothers who have given so much of themselves through the years. We can treasure the memories of their love and care which nurtured and shaped us as we grew. Those who still have their mothers living are aware that that nurturing is still going on, a vital process of motherhood.

Where does all this come from? Without hesitation I would say it’s from the special gift Jesus gave to us as He hung on the Cross — His own mother, Mary, to guide us through life’s journeying. “Behold your Mother,” He said to Saint John and to us. He knew she would be the very person who could and would assist us whenever needed. The Church sets aside the month of May to honor her.

Mary, our mother, lived in a whole different culture, yet experienced the same things we do in a less hectic society. Her world was completely changed when she received God’s request to become mother of the Savior. What He was asking was not in tune with the customs or mores of the people. Yet she said: “Yes, let it be done according to Your word.” That “yes,” that total faith carried her through all the joys, uncertainties, pains, sorrows, separations and resurrection moments. She knows what it’s like when we experience the ups and downs of life.

Her example can shape our responses to all we are called to do or sacrifice. We can imitate her prayerful, trusting way. We can also remember that she asked Jesus to help at a wedding. When He seemed to refuse, hear her say: “Do whatever He tells you.” She says those same words to us. Since Jesus gave her as a mother it stands to reason that He expects us to turn to her in prayer and ask for help.

As I was growing up I was taught to “go to Jesus through Mary.” A Trappist monk, Father M. Raymond, says it this way: “Remember O Mary, that you can’t say you can’t, because you are God’s Mother, and you won’t say you won’t because you are my mother. So you will, won’t you?”

Reflect with Angela:

Invite Angela into your prayer time. Talk with her about Mary’s role in her life. Feel her love for Mary flow to you. Let Angela’s motherly spirit envelop you so that as you pray and work, both Mother Mary and Mother Angela will take your needs to Jesus.

Prayer:

Reflect on Father Raymond’s short prayer or use The Memorare to go to Jesus through Mary…. “Remember, O most gracious Virgin Mary, that never was it known that anyone who fled to thy protection, implored thy help, or sought thy intercession was left unaided. Inspired by this confidence, I fly unto thee, O virgin of virgins, my mother. To thee do I come, before thee I stand, sinful and sorrowful. O mother of the Word Incarnate, despise not my petitions but in thy mercy, hear and answer me. Amen.”

By: Sister Marie William Blyth