27th Week in Ordinary Time, Saturday (Year II)
Luke 11:27-28
“My mother and my brothers are those who hear the word of God and act on it” (Luke 8:21).
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” (Luke 11:27-28).
Mary, who was always of one mind and heart with Jesus, rejoiced exceedingly to hear him say to everyone, “Rather, blessed are those who hear the word of God and observe it.” The Theotokos never heard a slight or insult from her Son who gave the whole human family to his Mother as her own children.
The Blessed Mother had no trace of envy or pride; thus, she had no capacity to perceive depreciation in any word or action of her beloved Son.
Does Mary care about rank or privilege? She probably smiles at our efforts to defend her “status” as first among those who “hear the word of God and act on it,” but in her maternal heart she only desires our return to the Father through his only-begotten Son in the Holy Spirit.
“Most blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb” (Luke 1:42).
“Blessed are you who believed that what was spoken to you by the Lord would be fulfilled” (Luke 1:45).
“For he has looked upon his handmaid’s lowliness; behold, from now on will all ages call me blessed” (Luke 1:48).
Blessed is our Mother Mary who selflessly gave herself away for our salvation. Blessed is she who forgot herself to be remembered by all her children.
Whenever I lose my way, I always look to Mary for Direction. I love Mary under all her titles, including this new one I just learned from you, Our Lady of Vladimir. Thank you for your reflection and the new and awesome ways you give us to become closer to God.