Gospel: Luke 11:27-28
While Jesus was speaking,
a woman from the crowd called out and said to him,
“Blessed is the womb that carried you
and the breasts at which you nursed.”
He replied, “Rather, blessed are those
who hear the word of God and observe it.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
The Mass intention is for Teresa Brett RIP (5pm).
Reflection:
As kids, whenever people show their admiration to us, it would not be long before they also praise our parents. Such was the attitude of the woman from the crowd in today’s Gospel. Indeed, who would not be more blessed than the mother of this itinerant preacher-physician? However, Jesus clarified that it is those who “hear the word of God and observe it” that are blessed. This is like what the Lord told in a previous chapter: “My mother and brothers are those who hear God’s word and put it into practice.” (Luke 8:21). These responses do not reject but affirm how blessed Our Lady is. According to Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI, Mary’s Magnificat (Luke 1:46-50) “reveals in filigree the spirituality of the biblical ‘anawim,’ that is, of those faithful who not only recognize themselves as ‘poor’ in the detachment from all idolatry of riches and power, but also in the profound humility of a heart emptied of the temptation to pride and open to the bursting in of the divine saving grace.” By being detached and humble, Mary was able not only able to hear God’s Word – Jesus Himself – but bear Him in her womb, nurture Him, love Him, and observe what He has proclaimed and taught. During this Rosary Month, let us learn more of Mary so that through her we may also hear Jesus and “do whatever He tells us” (cf. John 2:5).
- How do you express gratitude for the love and care your mother has shown you?
- What virtues of Mary would you like to develop in your life?
- How can you become more like Mary, especially during this time of pandemic?
Lord Jesus, thank You for Your Word today. Through the prayers and example of Our Lady, grant us the grace to be detached from whatever hinders us from hearing Your Word and observing it. Amen.
Sincerely,
Pietro
