THURSDAY, THIRTY THIRD WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME
Memorial of the Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary
Rv 5: 1-10 Ps 149: 1-6, 9 Lk 19: 41-44/Mt 12:46-50
BEING PART OF GOD’S FAMILY
Today, we celebrate the Memorial of the Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary. We celebrate Mary’s complete surrender to God’s plans for the salvation of the world. Although absent in Sacred Scripture, this is based on ancient Christian tradition. Our Lady was completely faithful to the will of God. Think of what she had to face: so much uncertainty, so many confusing and painful occurrences, so many devastating losses and tragedies. Her presentation at the Temple foreshadowed her “yes” and her Magnificat at the Annunciation, The Church presents us today, Our Lady’s beautiful prayer, The Magnificat. The Church wants us living the rhythm of the Magnificat in our daily lives.
In today’s gospel, Jesus talks about his real family. Jesus is passionate in doing His mission. He uses every opportunity to teach the people. When His loved ones wanted to talk to Him, He took it as an opportunity to make a relevant point, that is, doing the will of the father is the most valuable thing in life. Jesus did not disrespect His mother or any of His loved ones but as the “Son of Man”, He does not prioritize the needs of His family over His mission. He is no longer confined to His immediate family but to everyone else. Something that must be learned here: family should never hinder one to serve God. Mary also did not force herself to approach her son Jesus. She patiently waited at a distance.
The gospel reminds us that we belong to a Family with God as our loving Father. When we seek to do His will, we become the brother, or sister, or mother of Jesus. However, how do I know what God’s will is for me? Perhaps God’s will for me is to be inclusive and loving to every individual who crosses my path. May this feast help us to do the will of our heavenly Father in our life here in earth and to be the part of His family in heaven.
Response: You have made us a kingdom and priests to our God.
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