Jan. 1, 2024

Today’s Reflection on the Blessed Virgin Mary, the Mother of God, from Fr. Joseph

Source: www.ewtn.com

Today, on the first day of 2024, we remember the Blessed Virgin Mary.

 When we proclaim with joy and gratitude that Mary is the Mother of God, we, with the Church, are simply proclaiming that the One she gave birth to IS GOD!

 God didn’t choose a queen of a kingdom. He didn’t choose anyone who was famous or influential. He chose a teenager from Nazareth to be His Mother. And He loved – and still loves – her dearly. St. Maximilian Kolbe once said, “Never be afraid of loving the Blessed Virgin too much. You can never love her more than Jesus did.”

However, Mary isn’t only Jesus’ mother. She is our mother, too (see Revelation 12:17). As our mother, she loves us individually. We can ask for her intercession for all of our needs, whether physical, emotional, or spiritual.

 Most importantly, the Blessed Mother wants us to seek her Son. Her last recorded words in Sacred Scripture are “Do whatever he tells you” (John 2:5). These words sum up her messages at Guadalupe, Lourdes, and Fátima. She wants us to follow her Son and to do whatever He tells us.

 As we celebrate the Mother of God, let’s ask for her intercession. Is there a problem in your life? A loved one who has left the Faith? A health problem? A death you’re mourning?

 Mary wants to help you. Just as she helped the young couple who ran out of wine in Cana, Mary will help you, too.

 And, along with Mary, let us worship the Divine Infant in the Manger.

 Here are today's Mass readings:

 First reading: Numbers 6:22-27

 Psalm: 67:2-3, 5, 6, 8

 Second reading: Galatians 4:4-7

 Gospel: Luke 2:16-21