A reflection on Luke 11:27–28 for Saturday of the 27th Week in Ordinary Time.
I understand the woman who calls out to Jesus. She hears him speaking and thinks of his mother. What a blessing it must be to have a son like this! As a mother, I understand her feelings. When someone sees my children doing something good, I am happy. They are themselves, but I am still their proud mamá.
Jesus answers that the blessed are those who hear God’s word and observe it. His response can sound a little harsh to someone who loves Our Lady. But Mary’s life helps me understand. She heard what God asked and said yes. Then she continued that yes through things she did not understand at her first fiat.
Our Lady of Guadalupe is so close to me. I bring her my concerns as a mother who knows what it means to love a child and fear for that child. Sometimes, though, I want her to help make everything exactly as I think it should be.
I have plans for my children. When I pray, I tell those plans to God. I tell him what needs to change and sometimes who needs to realize that I am right. By the time I finish, I have given him plenty of instructions.
Listening is harder. God might ask something of me.
I might need to hear my child’s explanation before giving my thoughts. Maybe I even owe an apology, but I keep praying about the argument instead of making it.
Remember Mary asked questions too. She asked the angel how his message could be possible. Later, she told Jesus how worried she and Joseph had been when they could not find him. This helps me bring my own questions to prayer. What is going on here?
Mary kept listening, even when she did not understand.
When I ask her to pray for me, I want to learn from her. I can begin with what Jesus has already told me. I can forgive, lower my voice, or give someone my attention. I know where I need to start, even if I would rather discuss something else.
Lord Jesus, help me hear your word with an open heart. You know how tightly I hold my plans for my family. Through Our Lady’s prayers, give me courage to trust you when I am uncertain. Help me accept new ideas, ask forgiveness, and respond with love to the people in my care. Amen.