Happy Feast of the Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary! I started to ponder over this reflection after attending St. Cecilia’s Cathedral celebration of the first appearances of the Virgin Mary on May 13, 1917 in Fatima, Portugal. Throughout the celebration I found myself choking up while reflecting on how much my life has changed over these past decades. The genesis of my life transformation took place when I lost my job. Several years ago, I worked for a law firm here in Omaha. I took three months for maternity leave after the birth of my first son. When I was ready to go back to work, I was advised that my services were no longer needed. While devastated at the time, I can look back and realize what a blessing this time was for me and my family. I chose to become a stay-at home mom and had two additional babies. I deepened and grew in my faith and eventually made my way to the Catholic Church. During that journey, I found Mary and how much I love her. Happy Feast of the Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary!
“Fear not, O Zion, be not discouraged!
The LORD, your God, is in your midst,
a mighty savior;
He will rejoice over you with gladness,
and renew you in his love.” Zephaniah 3:16-17
Let us follow Mary’s exemplary example of discipleship in loving and caring for one another during our time of need. Just as Mary set out “in haste” to be with Elizabeth, may we come together as a community “in haste” to demonstrate our servant’s hearts and trust in God.
“God indeed is my savior;
I am confident and unafraid.
My strength and my courage is the LORD,
And he has been my savior.” Isaiah 12:2
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Since its inception in 1997, Online Ministries has been blessed to have myriad members of the Creighton University community offer their personal reflections on the daily scripture readings.