MMM post # 15

Mary, Mother of Jesus 

When the virgin Mary was made aware of her pregnancy, she journeyed to the home of her friend Elizabeth who was pregnant with John the Baptist, and there sot comfort and acceptance in her condition. Upon her return home she was further along in her pregnancy and sure to face opposition.

During this season through my mothering years, my mind has often reflected on Mary's possible emotions, her mortal worries and fears surrounding her condition, and on bearing and rearing the Son of God while barely being espoused to Joseph in her society. No doubt her belief in God, her acceptance of His divine role for her, and carrying the Christ child bolstered her faith and drove her onward.

Her example of faith was evident in her conviction to "fear not" when the threat of stoning followed her for conceiving out of wedlock. When she awaited Joseph's confirmation of his divine role as Jesus' earthly father. As her and Joseph made there arduous trek to Bethlehem, the Holy City, to seek refuge. And finally, when at the moment of delivery, lying in the only shelter that could be found, she suffered through the pains of child birth knowing that the Son of God, the Prince of Peace, would begin his mortal ministry on this Earth being born in a stable.

How blessed we are for the example of fortitude and more importantly, the faith of Mary. For her devotion to her calling as the Mother of Jesus Christ. My heart is full of gratitude for her sacrifice in the birth, life and death of her Son and her role as His mother. May we cherish and immulate Mary's faithful example at this Christmastime and always.