Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother, for our journey

Gen 3,9-15.20; Psalm: 86; Jn 19:25-34

Dear brothers and sisters in Christ, Today, we gather to reflect on an extraordinary figure in our faith, Mary, the Mother of our Lord and our Mother on this journey of life. As we delve into the scriptures, we will discover how Mary is not only a historical figure but also a profound source of inspiration and guidance for each of us.

Let us first turn to the book of Genesis, where we encounter the aftermath of humanity’s fall from grace. In Genesis chapter three, we witness a pivotal moment when God speaks to the serpent, proclaiming the Protoevangelium, the first Gospel. God declares that the woman’s offspring will crush the serpent’s head. This promise shines like a beacon of hope amid darkness. Eve, who is called the mother of all the living, becomes a foreshadowing of Mary, the New Eve. St. Irenaeus beautifully said that the knot of Eve’s disobedience was loosed by Mary’s obedience. Can you imagine the weight of that obedience? Mary was faced with a monumental choice when the angel Gabriel visited her. The world was in desperate need of redemption, and she said yes. In that moment, she became the vessel through which God entered our world.

Pope St. John Paul II reminded us that at Calvary, Mary became the mother of all the living. She accepted life on behalf of all humanity, representing each one of us in her willingness to bear the Savior. Think for a moment about what it means to be a mother. A mother nurtures life, provides comfort, and guides us through challenges. Mary embodies all these qualities, and her role as a mother extends beyond her own life. She is a model for us, a guide on our journey.

When we face trials, we can turn to her for strength and intercession. The psalmist speaks to us in Psalm 86, where we find a beautiful expression of prayer. Mary is the Church’s model of prayer. Throughout her life, she remained in constant dialogue with God. Her Magnificat is a testament to her deep faith and trust in God’s promises. She teaches us how to pray with humility and gratitude. When we approach God, we can follow her example by pouring out our hearts, trusting that He hears us and cares for us. In our own lives, we encounter moments where our faith is tested. We face uncertainties, losses, and heartaches.

In those moments, we can remember Mary’s strength at the foot of the cross. In the Gospel of John, we read about Mary standing by Jesus as He suffered. John 19 verses 25 to 34 captures the profound moment of Mary witnessing her Son’s sacrifice. Imagine the pain she felt, yet she stood firm. It was there, in her sorrow, that she became the mother of the Church.

Jesus entrusted her to John, saying, “Woman, behold your son,” and to John, “Behold your mother.” In that moment, she was invited into a new role—our Mother. Mary’s presence at the cross teaches us that motherhood is also about enduring love. It is about being there for others, even when it hurts. Mary’s journey was not free of suffering, but she transformed that suffering into a powerful testimony of love. Her example encourages us to embrace our own crosses as part of our journey, reminding us that we are never alone.

As we reflect on Mary today, let us consider what it means for us to accept her as our Mother. In a world that often feels fragmented and chaotic, Mary stands as a figure of unity and hope. She invites us to draw closer to her Son, to trust in His mercy, and to be instruments of His love. In our families, our communities, and our Church, we are called to mirror Mary’s love and compassion. We can nurture those around us, just as she nurtured Jesus. We can offer support to those in need, just as she stood by Jesus during His darkest hour. And we can pray earnestly, seeking God’s guidance and strength.

As we embark on our journey together, let us hold fast to the promise fulfilled in Mary. Let us seek her intercession, asking her to walk alongside us. She is not just a figure in history; she is a reality in our lives. May we allow her example to inspire us to live boldly in faith, to embrace our challenges with grace, and to love unconditionally.

In conclusion, let us remember that Mary is a Mother for our journey. She is the New Eve, the model of prayer, and the Mother of the Church. Let us honor her by following her example and inviting her into our hearts as we navigate the path that God has set before us. May we always find solace and strength in her maternal embrace. Amen.

Pope Francis reminds us:

“Mary is the ‘mother who gives birth to hope’ in the heart of the Church. Run to her when your soul is weary!” (Homily, 2020)

Vatican II affirms:

“She conceived, brought forth, and nourished Christ… and cherished the newborn Church with her prayers.” (Lumen Gentium, 54)“In Mary, we see the Church in her perfection: faithful, hopeful, and loving at the foot of the Cross.”
— St. John Henry Newman