A Jesuit Catholic University
in Omaha, Nebraska, since 1878

[12] Mic 5:1-4a Ps 80:2-3, 15-16, 18-19 Heb 10:5-10 Luke 1:39-45

Weekly Guide for Daily Prayer The Daily Reflections

In these final days of Advent, as we anxiously await the arrival of the Christ child, the gospel reminds us that we are joined in our anticipation by our Blessed Mother. We also rejoice that God, in his love, not only became man but also gave us His mother.  Echoing the words of Elizabeth two thousand years ago, what an incredible realization this is, that the mother of my Lord has come to me. What a breathtaking truth this is, that the Mother of God is my mother too.

Writing this reflection, I am reminded of a sign my mom has at home that lists all the ways a mom can drive you crazy, and then it says, “…But you will never meet anyone who loves, prays, and cares about you more than I do.” I think this quote really reflects the love of all mothers, including our Blessed Mother.  Our mothers lovingly prepare us for the future and help us grow in many ways.  They continuously form us and orient us towards Jesus Christ by both example and word. In the same way, our Heavenly Mother desires to help us grow closer to her son.  Through her love, prayers and care, as well as by simply looking to her example as the perfect Christian, we can prepare ourselves for Christ’s coming.

In these final days of Advent, we echo Mary’s preparation for the coming of her son. Just as Mary journeyed to the hill county of Judah over two thousand years ago, we have traveled through this season of Advent to prepare ourselves for Christ’s coming. Just as the baby joyfully leaped within Elizabeth’s womb at Mary’s arrival, our hearts will be filled with joy as we commemorate Christ’s birth this Christmas.  So I challenge you in these last few days of preparation to allow our Blessed Mother to make your heart ready for the arrival of her son, our Lord Jesus Christ.

May God bless you in this season of the Christ child.