Thursday, August 05, 2021

The dedication of the Basilica of St Mary Major

Virgin most faithful, pray for us!

We address Our Lady with this title to praise her faithfulness to God. She says: "Behold the handmaid of the Lord" (Luke 1:38) and in these words is her readiness to accept all God wish to send her, no matter if it brings joy or sadness. She was steady and meek to keep her words in poor and cold stable in Bethlehem, during hard times of exile in Egypt, in poor house in Nazareth, during Jesus bloodstained way to Calvary, standing under His Cross and during long years without Jesus after His Ascension to Heaven. Let us meditate on her care and faithfulness to us. In short testament: "This is your son!" (John 19:26)
she was given by Jesus all of us in the person of St John. Acting as the best mother she takes all Adam's descendants under her mantle. St Bernard says that Satan is roaming around looking for someone to devour, but Mary is tirelessly looking for those to save. Let us be filled with gratitude and appreciation for Our Immaculate Lady most faithful care and work for the salvation of souls. Let us follow closely her example for she fulfills her promises with great care. Let us do all we can to keep our Baptismal and First Holy Communion promises remembering Our Lord words: "No man putting his hand to the plough, and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God" (Luke 9:62)

Today's picture of this beautiful statue "Ave Regina Pacis" was taken in St Mary Major Basilica in Rome