Daily Gospel Reflection for August 15, 2024: Solemnity of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary

Join us as we reflect, ponder, and pray together inspired by today's Gospel.

Today's Gospel: Luke 1:39-56

I have a distinct memory of one of my first experiences with the beautiful verses of the Magnificat contained in today's Gospel.

"My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord; my spirit rejoices in God my Savior for he has looked with favor on his lowly servant."

My mother, who sung in the parish choir for many years, had tape recorded the choir's rehearsal so that she could practice singing the Magnificat at home, and I committed it to memory. I doubt my mother considered what a gift she gave my in allowing me to lie on her bed and listen to that recording and her practice. I've never since heard that adaption of the Magnificat sung, but I can hear it clearly in my mind from more than forty years ago.

The Magnificat demonstrates Mary's generosity, humility, and obedience. All of our mothers - and all of us - fail to meet the high bar sinless Mary has set for us, some to a greater extent than others. How blessed we are to have Mary as the perfect mother to teach us and to point us to God, whose goodness she extols in these verses as well.

Where our mothers have failed, let us look to the Mother of God. When we fall short, let us look to Mary as our model.

Ponder:

Do I remember to call on my heavenly mother, seeking her intercession, as I fulfill my role as a woman, wife, and mother?

Pray:

Thank You, Jesus, for the gift of Your mother to guide and intercede in our behalf. May her example inspire me to be generous, humble, and obedient.

Copyright 2024 Carolyn Astfalk