MASS READINGS:

A reading from the holy Gospel according to Luke 1:39-47

Mary set out and traveled to the hill country in haste to a town of Judah, where she entered the house of Zechariah and greeted Elizabeth. When Elizabeth heard Mary’s greeting, the infant leaped in her womb, and Elizabeth, filled with the Holy Spirit, cried out in a loud voice and said, “Most blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb. And how does this happen to me, that the mother of my Lord should come to me? For at the moment the sound of your greeting reached my ears, the infant in my womb leaped for joy. Blessed are you who believed that what was spoken to you by the Lord would be fulfilled.” And Mary said: “My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord; my spirit rejoices in God my savior.”

REFLECTION:

And with a look of great love, Mary smiled at Juan Diego and gently chided him for his doubts. "Do not let anything afflict you, and do not be afraid of any illness, or accident, or pain. Am I not here who am your Mother? Are you not under my shadow and protection? Do you need anything else?"

Yesterday, I had a strong presence of my mother who has been dead for 10 years. I had a very strong desire to speak with her and therefore felt a great loss. She was my best friend, a great consoler and my protector. How she loved me and I always felt safe around her.

Later on that day, much to my surprise, there was a package at my home from my cousin, Madeline. Inside the box were two pictures of my mom, a Christmas ornament that my son had given her and her Vogue dress patterns. Madeline found them in her home. And I believe that my mami indeed was letting me know all would be okay.

Today is the Feast Day of Our Lady of Guadalupe. She is the patroness of the Americas. She related to Juan Diego with a mother's tenderness especially when he was worried about his uncle who was ill. She was loving, humble, gentle and patient with Juan Diego. St Juan Diego did as she instructed him and revealed Our Lady to the Bishop. Knowing we are under her care and her mantle, may we proceed without fear freely letting all know about Our Lady of Guadalupe and she in turn will take us to her Son.

God Bless