As I reflect on today’s readings, I feel great irony.  Today’s readings are kind of difficult.  They seem pretty dark to me.  The irony comes in when I meditate on the gifts of Our Lady of the Rosary.  The first reading discussed lots of rules, being faithful, and the consequences of not following the rules or being faithful.

Today’s gospel is full of talk of Beelzebul—the devil.  As soon as we overcome an evil in our life, we cannot let down our guard as there are more evils lurking.  Pope Francis has some wise words not only in terms of today’s readings, but in honor of Our Lady of the Rosary.

In a homily given on the Feast of the Assumption Pope Francis reminds us of the importance of praying the rosary. He focuses on three words:  Struggle, resurrection, and hope. 

The first term, according to Pope Francis, addresses the inherent struggle between good and evil, and how Our Lady plays an important role in guiding the world along this struggle.  “Mary joins us, she fights at our side. She supports Christians in the fight against the forces of evil. Especially through prayer, through the rosary.

The Pope continued saying that Our Lady had shared in the struggles of her son, Jesus Christ. She suffered along with him, and so when Jesus resurrected, she was also given redemption.

Pope Francis tells us that “Our Mother, represents us. She is our Sister, our first Sister to be granted redemption and taken to Heaven.”

Because of her suffering and redemption, Our Lady is also the most iconic image of hope. She is close to those who suffer throughout the world, and she provides them the hope to overcome their struggle.

Take a few moments today to think about any evils you may be dealing with, then pray to our Mother, Mary asking for help in overcoming the evil—and for strength. 

October is the month of the rosary.  It’s not too late to develop a new habit, and make an effort to pray the rosary regularly.