Mary calls us to repentance and conversion

Acts 11:19-26; Psalm: 86; Jn 10:22-30

Today’s readings offer powerful insights into the faith and devotion of believers, as well as the love and protection of the Blessed Virgin Mary, also known as Our Lady of Fatima. These passages serve as reminders of the importance of trust and faith in God, as well as the intercession and guidance of Mary in our lives.

In today’s first reading, we see the early Christians spreading the Gospel to various regions, even amidst persecution and challenges. Despite facing opposition, the disciples continued to preach the word of God with courage and zeal. This passage reminds us of the importance of persevering in our faith, even when faced with difficulties and hardships. It is a testament to the power of the Holy Spirit working in the hearts of believers, empowering them to share the message of salvation with others.

Similarly, in today’s Gospel, Jesus speaks of the security and protection that his sheep have in following him. He assures his followers that no one can snatch them out of his hand, emphasizing the divine protection and love that God offers to those who trust in him. This passage serves as a comforting reminder of the constant presence of God in our lives, watching over us and guiding us along the path of righteousness.

Our Lady of Fatima is a title given to the Virgin Mary, based on the apparitions that occurred in Fatima, Portugal, in 1917. During these apparitions, Mary appeared to three shepherd children – Lucia dos Santos, Jacinta Marto, and Francisco Marto – delivering messages about the need for prayer, repentance, and devotion to her Immaculate Heart. Mary’s presence at Fatima serves as a powerful example of her maternal love and concern for all of humanity, urging us to turn towards God and embrace the message of salvation.

The messages delivered by Mary at Fatima echo the themes of the Bible verses in Acts and John, emphasizing the importance of faith, prayer, and perseverance in the face of adversity. The call to repentance and conversion found in the Fatima messages resonates with the teachings of Jesus, who constantly urges his followers to turn away from sin and embrace the path of righteousness. Mary’s presence at Fatima serves as a visible reminder of the divine intercession and guidance that she offers to believers, leading them towards a deeper relationship with God.

The devotion to Our Lady of Fatima continues to inspire millions of Catholics around the world, who turn to Mary for her maternal care and protection. The messages delivered at Fatima serve as a call to prayer and penance, urging us to seek forgiveness for our sins and strive for holiness in our lives. Mary’s role as the Mother of God and Queen of Heaven offers believers a powerful intercessor and advocate before the throne of God, guiding us towards a deeper relationship with her Son, Jesus Christ.

In conclusion, today’s readings, along with the devotion to Our Lady of Fatima, offer us powerful insights into the faith and love that God offers to his children. They remind us of the importance of trust, prayer, and perseverance in our relationship with God, as well as the intercession and guidance that Mary offers to believers. Through the messages delivered at Fatima, Mary calls us to repentance and conversion, urging us to turn towards God and embrace the path of salvation. May we continue to seek the intercession of Our Lady of Fatima in our lives, as we strive to grow in faith and holiness before God.