Memorial of the Queenship of the Blessed Virgin Mary
Jesus said, “You have but one Father in heaven; you have but one master, the Christ.” As we have one Father and one Master, Jesus wants us to give God our entire self, our whole being — to give ourselves to Him entirely — not holding back, not half-hearted, not reluctantly, but totally and completely.
I’m reassured on this Memorial of the Queenship of Mary that we not only have a Father in heaven, but we also have a Mother in heaven. Pope St. John Paul II wrote, “Mary has already crossed the threshold between faith and that vision which is face to face. At the same time, however, Mary does not cease to be the “Star of the Sea” for all those who are still on the journey of faith” (Redemptoris Mater, 6). Mary has gone before us but also remains as a guide to show us the way to God.
The Blessed Virgin Mary has a unique intercessory role and she is a great gift for all of us striving to see God face to face. Mary may already have a significant role in your journey of faith, but I suggest that you rely on her support particularly in the difficulties of life. Sometimes prayer can be dry and burdensome, and you are unable to focus and prayer can be discouraging. You might feel as if your heart is willing to encounter the Lord, but His presence remains veiled and elusive. In such times of darkness or confusion, and as you struggle to voice our prayers to God, I invite you to entrust your concerns to the Mary who will perfect your prayers and bring them to the Lord. Mary will support you in prayer when you need help.
O Mary, Queen conceived without original sin, Pray for us!
Reflection Question: What need or intention is on my heart that I want to bring to Mary so that she can support me in prayer?
Reflection by Fr. Paul Sheller, OSB
Posted in Articles for Lent, Daily Reflections, Lenten Resources