Take Her Hand

Since I didn’t get to attend any True North Conferences this year, I was delighted to be able to attend the Marian Eucharistic Conference here in Winnipeg. Yes Lord, You still gave me the conference experience I longed for!

This conference was different. This conference was not like the many conferences I’ve been to. For one thing, I was surrounded by hardly any youth –mostly older men and women and religious sisters. Another, was the amount of speakers and the variety of sessions that took place within the weekend. What was so apparent however, was the presence and love of Our Mother at that conference.

As I reflected on my personal devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary, I realized at times it was very one-sided. I admired her, yes, in all that she is and all that she inspires me to be. However, she doesn’t want my admiration. That was never what she sought. She wants me and my entire self, to be so in love with her Son. She wants so badly for all of us to be united with her Son that she is willing to help us get there, so long as we ask.

Fr. Joseph Christensen said “The Rosary is Mary’s hand. Take her hand.” So often I hold the Rosary, not realizing I am holding the hand of Our Mother. She is our surest help, the one I can count on for prayers. Just like in Cana, she tells Jesus our needs, and petitions for our miracles. Uniting my heart to her Immaculate Heart, brings me only closer to the Sacred Heart of Jesus, for her heart is so united with His. Fr. Joseph also said “Do not be afraid to be lost in her. Her will is perfectly conformed to God’s will. She will give you her heart to dwell safely there. She has way more to give you, then you to give her.”

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Mary, beloved daughter of the Father, Mother of the Son, and Spouse of the Spirit, perfectly united with the love of the Trinity, let me grow in my devotion to you, not only as my intercessor, not only as my guidance, not only as my model, but as my own dearest and loving Mother.

Remember, O most gracious Virgin Mary, that never was it known that anyone who fled to your protection, implored your help, or sought your intercession was left unaided. Inspired by this confidence, I fly unto you, O Virgin of virgins, my mother; to you do I come, before you I stand, sinful and sorrowful. O Mother of the Word Incarnate, despise not my petitions, but in your mercy hear and answer me. Amen.

Ad Jesum Per Mariam.