I often think of Mary with awe! Although we often talk of Jesus’ sacrifice, we don’t talk of Mary’s nearly enough.

As a Mom, I can’t even imagine the horror and pain she endured watching her Son dying on that Cross.  A million thoughts must have raced through her mind and heart.  That she didn’t simply collapse is a testament to her courage and faith, her love for Jesus, as well as our Father’s strength and the Holy Spirit’s Comfort.  It’s was a miracle in and of itself!

Personally, I know I would have collapsed.  Just as I know I would have begged our Father not to allow my Son to die, especially in such a horrific way.  But that was not Jesus’ Will.  He came to save us from our sin, no matter the cost. 

Instead, Mary gave Jesus what He needed most, Her love and her strength, and Her faith in our Father’s Will.  Mary trusted our Father.  She knew God’s ways were, and are, “higher than our ways”. And I am sure she prayed for Jesus! For Mary knew just how important prayer was and is!

Mary gave God Her all and trusted God with the outcome…and that is what we need to do!

As a Mom, the sheer horror of watching my Son crucified would have broken me, but it didn’t break Mary.  Because Her love for Jesus and was that pure and that strong.  And that love helped Her to overcome all.  And for that alone, I will always be grateful to Mary.  Just as I will always hope to be more like her!

Too often, modern day churches seem to argue about Mary’s role in the “church”.  But the truth is – there really is no need for we are all the “church” 

Mary was Jesus’ Mother and one of the best role models we will ever have.  By Her sacrifice alone, she has not only proven Her love for our Father, His Son Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit, but for each of us as well. 

And Jesus loves Mary so very much too, as only a Son can love His Mother.

As for the confusion of “praying to Our Blessed Mother Mary”.  It is not that we are “praying to Mary”, but rather we are asking Mary to pray for us!  And why would we not?

Mary is in Heaven with God and I talk with her every day!  Sometimes simply to thank Her for all she sacrificed for us.  And sometimes to ask her to pray for me or others.  And I know she does, because She loves each of us. 

Mary has enriched my faith and brought me great joy and peace!  She can do the same for you. Happy Mother’s Day Mary, and thank you!