The Catholic Church marked her World Day of Peace on New Year’s Day, along with the Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God. Both events coincide on a special day of the year ushering in a flood of positive outcomes.
Our Mother Mary who brought into this world the reason for Christmas is celebrated for the vital role she played in the salvation of our world from sin and destruction.
‘The angel replied, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. So the baby to be born will be holy, and he will be called the Son of God”’ [Luke 1:35]
One of the things that struck me whilst listening to the homily in church on New Year day was the fact that Mary, whilst taking care of the child Jesus often came across mysterious or unexplainable situations, but instead of to panic or do otherwise, she treasured it in her heart and kept up with the good work.
‘He answered them, “Why did you have to look for me? Didn’t you know that I had to be in my Father’s house”…His mother treasured all these things in her heart. ‘[Luke 2:49, 51]
‘Like Mary, we are called to always give anything that happens to us a ‘deep’ second thought before we act.’
Everything that happens in this life happens for a reason. Harsh and quick judgments only lead to more mistakes. We are not to be too quick to respond, it is best to ponder well before taking action.
This is the New Year and it’s common for us to make New Year resolutions. I have just shared mine with you. I too have in so many ways being guilty of taking harsh decisions on impulse.
Mary was blessed because of her wise approach to situations, we too can share in her blessings just by making conscious effort to find out that which our Lord is calling us to do – and do it immediately.
May the good Lord strengthen us always to do His biddings and practice passionately our New Year resolutions in Jesus name; Amen!
Happy New Year!