Mary is a special model for women. I have known many women who were true daughters of Mary, supportive of their families and their parishes. Just as the holy women in the Bible followed and supported Jesus, these wonderful ladies support their pastors and make a real positive difference. Our churches are enriched by their presence. Unfortunately, while I quickly recall positive examples of Marian imitation, when I ponder the humble strength of Mary, I am also reminded of a negative event in my ministry from over a decade ago. There was an encounter with a woman who almost seemed like an anti-Mary. She attracted to herself like-minded women filled with grievances who seemed to almost hate men and those good women who did not think as they did. The experience deeply wounded me. Unlike Mary, there was nothing of humility and acceptance of God’s will.
Mary cooperated with Jesus who is the great high priest. She was strong and courageous, but always faithful. When our Lord was a boy in the temple, she sought him out. At Cana, she would ask his favor and intervention. When he was engaged in ministry and she worried about him with a Mother’s concern, she pursued him. When he entered his Passion, she followed and wanted to be near him.
Mary was close to the heart of Jesus.
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