Advent: The Warm Glow Of Mary
During this season of Advent, how will you experience the warm glow of Mary’s presence? Let us remember, celebrate and rejoice as we reflect upon the message of Mary to us today. Most recently I had the opportunity to experience “A Rendezvous with Mary and the Saints … A Pilgrimage of Mercy!” For me this pilgrimage to Fatima, Portugal, and Lourdes, France, was filled with the warm and gentle glow of the abiding presence of Mary, our Blessed Mother.
As we reflect on this season of Advent we remember Mary’s openness and humility, as she responded wholeheartedly in faith to the message of the angel that she is to be the Mother of God. In trustful waiting she gave her undivided “yes.” As we await the birth of Love Incarnate in our lives, how are we open to saying yes in faith and trust? Let us remember how Mary, in her gentle waiting, lived fully in divine grace. Mary, Mother of God, pray for us.
Every year, December 8 is a special feast of Mary for the Sisters of Saint Benedict of Ferdinand. As we celebrate this feast of the Immaculate Conception and continue to remember the Year of Consecrated Life, we are reminded of our commitment to the Benedictine way of life. The Benedictine values of prayer, work, community and hospitality sustain us as we seek God in contemplation and serve others in our world. Let us be ever grateful for the Christian virtues that draw us closer to Jesus through Mary. Mary, conceived without sin, pray for us.
Also connected with this feast, this year, is the opening of the Jubilee of Mercy proclaimed by Pope Francis. Let us rejoice and “never lose hope in God’s mercy” (Holy Rule of St. Benedict, Chapter 4). Saint John Paul II knew well the help of our Mother of Mercy, who would give to those who ask in her name. In his 1993 encyclical “Veritatis Splendor” (The Splendor of Truth), there is a section entitled “Mother of Mercy.” “Mary is Mother of Mercy because her son, Jesus Christ, was sent by the Father as the revelation of God's mercy (Matthew 16:16).” He emphasized that Mary's mercy is rooted in love. “Not having known sin, Mary is able to have compassion and mercy on every kind of weakness. She understands our sinful nature and loves us with a Mother’s love.” Let us ask Mary to intercede for us and show us the compassion and mercy of her Son. Mary, Mother of Mercy, pray for us.
As we remember, celebrate and rejoice this season of Advent may we be ever mindful and aware of the abiding presence of Mary in our midst on our journey of faith. May we be blessed with the warm and gentle glow of the Light of Incarnate Love on this day. In gratitude may Mary be praised for being our Mother.
Sister Betty Drewes is a Sister of Saint Benedict from Monastery Immaculate Conception in Ferdinand. Presently she is a member of the spirituality team and serves as Director of the Benedictine Hospitality Center. She also does spiritual direction and retreat presentations. Her background includes education, counseling, spirituality and leadership.
