Presentation of Mary

As we begin this week, leading up to the Thanksgiving holiday, we celebrate a beautiful feast, The Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary. We are familiar with the Presentation of our Lord in the Temple because we reflect on that event each time we pray the fourth joyful mystery of the Rosary. Now, we reflect on the Presentation of our Blessed Mother. One commentary puts this memorial into perspective, "The story of the presentation of Mary in the temple as a child captures the essential Gospel portrait of Mary as a woman entirely dedicated not merely to doing but to living the will of God. Her own willing obedience, unhesitatingly given and never revoked, lies at the heart of her life of self-sacrifice offered in love" (Magnificat, 294). This commentary follows the brief passage where our Lord says, "My food is to do the will of the one who sent me"(Jn 4:34). Our Lord came to do the will of his Father in heaven. Mary gave herself totally to the will of God when she said "Yes" to being the mother of God's only Son. We are called, brothers and sisters, to follow the will of God in our own lives. It is a total surrender, putting our complete faith and trust in God. We have nothing to fear because God will lead us in the right direction and give us the grace that we need to accomplish His will in our lives here on earth. Our Blessed Mother is a tremendous example for us and she guides us with her maternal hand and prayers of intercession. As Mary was presented in the temple, may she help us to get to heaven where she will present us to her divine Son. Mary, Mother of God, pray for us!!!