Daily Gospel Reflection for October 8, 2016

Today's Gospel: Luke 11, 27-28

There are some people who think this passage might have a negative meaning, that perhaps Jesus is saying Mary is not blessed.

On the contrary, Jesus is actually giving his mother, Mary, the highest of compliments, because when Mary heard the word of God, she believed it; and most importantly, she said “Yes.” Mary was blessed because she chose to believe God’s plan for her. Mary had a choice, and by choosing to surrender her life to God she became blessed.

Jesus is calling all of us to emulate his mother Mary. Each day of our lives God presents us with choices. On Sunday, we have a choice to go to Mass or to stay home and relax. When confronted with negative situations and people, we can choose to respond with grace or with anger.

As Christian mothers, it is our mission in life to choose God every moment of every day. We are called to reflect on difficult events in life not as accidents or things that just happen to us; but rather to believe that God has a plan for us, even though we might not understand.

Let us strive, like Mary, to put our faith completely in God and to surrender to His will; trusting that He will lead us through every situation. When we attend Mass with our family let us choose to listen to the word of God, so that our hearts may be stirred to doing the will of God.

When we receive the Body and Blood of Christ, may our “Amen” be a resounding fiat to the Lord, for each time we choose the way of God, our faith grows stronger. Let us be like Mary who heard and believed, and who chose to respond, “Let it be done to me according to your word.”

Ponder:

When you go to Mass, how can you actively listen to God’s word, and reflect even more on what it means when you say “Yes” when you respond “Amen” in the Eucharist?

Pray:

Lord, help me to model my life after your most Blessed Mother, Mary. Lead and guide all of my choices in life and help me to do your will in all situations. I am forever grateful for your love and assistance. Amen.

Copyright 2016 Lauren Nelson

Lauren Nelson is a Catholic wife to Steven and a mother to Alice and Amelia. She holds a Bachelors of Theology from Dominican University in River Forest, IL. Lauren is an affiliate of Mayslake Ministries and works with their online spirituality ministry, including online retreats and videos series. She is also a first grade catechist at her home parish.