Much commentary has ensued from this week’s selected passage from Luke’s Gospel, probably the most lengthy and continuous Marian text in Scripture. So what more can be said about it? As is the case with lectio divina, understanding and wisdom can come from a repetitive, prayerful reading.
Persons familiar with the Rosary might notice that the passage provides the basis for all five Joyful Mysteries: the first decade corresponds to the Annunciation (Luke 1:26-38), the second, the Visitation (Luke 1:39-560, followed by the Birth of Our Lord (Luke 2:1-20), the Presentation at the Temple (2:22-38), and the Finding in the Temple (Luke 2:41-52).
Of course, all are occasions for great joy, not only in the life of the Blessed Mother, but also for all generations of humankind for whom they herald God’s great mercy and redemption. But note the thread of sorrow that winds its way through each narrative. At the risk of raining on everyone’s parade, why reflect on this paradox? ~ Sharon Perkins (Lesson Four Reflection)
Whoa……each of these could be a week study itself! Where will God lead me?? I will sit & pray this again tonight, as this morning didn’t seem like nearly enough time sit with each line that grabbed at me. I am very grateful that I am alone this evening, and can sit in my prayer chair for as long as I wish.
I just want to begin by saying that I have really enjoyed reading all the reflections and comments women have been leaving here. It has enriched my experience.
This morning when I was reading, I was drawn instantly to Elizabeth. If I am honest, I can’t say it’s the work of the Holy Spirit. I am always drawn to Elizabeth, I LOVE her. At first, a little frustrated at myself for not listening to the promptings, I read it again and all the “supporting” characters were sticking out to me; Elizabeth, the shepherds, Simeon and Anna. Their responses really struck me. All of them, in haste, so without hesitation, with peace and joy have an incredible response when encountering Mary and Jesus. It made me realize there are very few things I respond to in haste. I have what you might call analysis paralysis. I am constantly asking God if this is what He is wanting me to do. I am certain, even with signs, I am more often that not, very doubtful. We don’t see any hesitation or doubt in these verses with the “supporting” characters. What extraordinary faith they demonstrated. With all of them, except the shepherds, it is indicated that they were advanced in age and had been waiting. I don’t particularly like waiting. I am not certain I am more joyful or peaceful while I am waiting for God to answer me.
After reading a second time, I thought to myself, this study is on Mary and I literally just reflected on everyone except her…#fail. So I read it again and focused on Mary’s response to all of the “supporting” characters. With all of them, except Anna, it is indicated that Mary treasures what they say to her and after Elizabeth Mary has her “Song of Praise”. It seems Mary realized that God was working through her, but also through these other people so that more could be revealed to her with a greater understanding.
This made me wonder how often God is using the people around me to share in His plan. Then of course the Holy Spirit decided to really let me know that He was listening and right after I read my scripture I read the reflection in Called By Name. Teresa Tomeo shares a story of how our friends can be a great gift from God on our spiritual journeys.
I love when things come together!
Amber, great insight on how the people God places in our path are sources of revelation for us. You gave me a new perspective on this passage. Thanks for sharing!
This reflection is such a wonderful expression of how much we love these passages in the Gospel of Luke. How Sharon pointed out that this is the longest Marian scripture we have from the Gospels can’t be missed! To see Our Blessed Mother in scripture is such a gift, as one gets the sense of Her just Gracing the Word of God with Her beauty and virtue! To meditate on Sharon’s reflection on how the joys of the Blessed Mother go hand in hand wtih Her sorrows is an important life lesson for us. Walking through our hardships, trials, and sufferings can be a joy within themselves if done for and with God; however, joy does, also, come at some point during these times. Whether it is through some spiritual or some other consolation, or the answer to prayer we have waited for, God always provides that joy when we remain faithful to Him!
What hit me during this week was the fruit of Mary’s womb….. Eve sinned with ‘fruit’ and we are redeemed through the ‘fruit’ of Mary’s womb….. and these verses are prayed in the Joyful mysteries of the Rosary which each have their own ‘fruit’ of each mystery of the rosary. Joyful fruits: humility, love of neighbor, poverty of spirit, purity, and obedience. What a beautiful example we have to follow; what a beautiful gift/mother we have been given!!
Carol, I really like your insight about “fruit.” My personal “word of the year” is “fruitfulness” and there is so much richness in it. Thanks for sharing!