Mother’s Day Reflection
Monday, May 11
Are there models I can use to help me better understand what a mother is to do or to be?
A great model for mothers is the Blessed Virgin Mary. The Catechism of the Catholic Church uses the titles of Advocate, Helper, Benefactress, and Mediatrix when speaking of Mary (CCC 969). These titles are important in explaining Mary’s special relationship to us, her children. We can also use these titles to show how mothers today can relate to their children.
Mary encourages us in our efforts to follow Christ. It becomes the duty of all mothers to be a guiding presence to their children as they begin to pray and learn to follow the Lord.
As Advocate and Helper, Mary assists us by her own prayer and example. Mary prays for us, and we only have to read Scripture to understand Mary’s example of listening to God. Today’s mothers share the task of praying for their children and spouses. A mother’s example of listening for God can teach her children the importance of seeking God’s will.
As Benefactress, Mary is a patron and invites us to receive the graces that only her Son can bestow. In today’s family, a mother offers a constant stream of love and encouragement to her spouse and her children. She is the patron of love, a refuge from the harshness that life can bring.
As Mediatrix, Mary brings people together as coworkers with Christ in the work of salvation. Also, a mother is a mediator, a coworker with Christ, helping her children and spouse on their journeys toward salvation. Her family is a little church where heaven and salvation are proclaimed. Happy (belated) Mother’s Day!
~Fr. Paul J. Coury, CSsR
On this Mother’s Day, let us pray for all mothers and those who lovingly serve as mothers. May God continue to empower them to reflect the love of God to those who have been entrusted to their care. Let us pray especially for all mothers who are enjoying the Love of God in heaven.
Let us Pray
A Mother’s Day Prayer
We thank you, Creator of us all, for mothers.
We thank you that she gave us life and nurtures us.
She gives us our faith, helps us to know you
and to know Jesus and his ways.
She teaches us how to love and how to sacrifice for others.
She teaches us that it is okay to cry
and that we should always tell the truth.
Bless her with the graces she needs
and which you want to give her today.
Help her to feel precious in your eyes today
and to know that she is loved.
Give her strength and courage, compassion and peace.
Bless her this day with your love.
Amen.
