Reflections
In the sixth month, the angel Gabriel was sent from God to a town of Galilee called Nazareth, to a virgin betrothed to a man named Joseph, of the house of David, and the virgin’s name was Mary. And coming to her, he said, “Hail, favored one! The Lord is with you.” But she was greatly troubled at what was said and pondered what sort of greeting this might be. Then the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. Behold, you will conceive in your womb and bear a son, and you shall name him Jesus. He will be great and will be called Son of the Most High, and the Lord God will give him the throne of David his father, and he will rule over the house of Jacob forever, and of his kingdom there will be no end.” But Mary said to the angel, “How can this be, since I have no relations with a man?” And the angel said to her in reply, “The holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. Therefore the child to be born will be called holy, the Son of God. And behold, Elizabeth, your relative, has also conceived a son in her old age, and this is the sixth month for her who was called barren; for nothing will be impossible for God.” Mary said, “Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord. May it be done to me according to your word.” Then the angel departed from her.
Luke 1:26-38 NABRE
Photo courtesy of Pin on Saints
The Annunciation: A Moment of Grace and Surrender
The first Joyful Mystery of the Rosary, the Annunciation, reveals the depth and beauty of God's love for us. It transports us to a moment when heaven touched earth, when the angel Gabriel announced to the humble Virgin Mary that she would conceive and bear the Son of God. Through an exploration of the biblical passages surrounding the Annunciation, we are invited to witness Mary's extraordinary faith and her readiness to surrender to God's mysterious plan.
The scene unfolds in the peaceful town of Nazareth, where Mary, a pure and devout young woman, lives. In the sixth month of Elizabeth's pregnancy, a heavenly messenger, the angel Gabriel, appears before Mary. The angel's words are filled with divine grace, "Greetings, you who are highly favored! The Lord is with you" (Luke 1:28, NIV). In that moment, Mary's life would be forever changed.
Fear and wonder may have filled Mary's heart as she encountered the angelic presence. Yet, Gabriel quickly comforted her, "Do not be afraid, Mary; you have found favor with God" (Luke 1:30, NIV). In these words, Mary learned that her righteous life had pleased the Almighty. God had chosen her for a purpose beyond her imagination, a purpose that would bring salvation to all humanity.
With awe and reverence, Gabriel continued, "You will conceive and give birth to a son, and you are to call him Jesus" (Luke 1:31, NIV). The impact of this revelation must have been immense for Mary, as she realized the significance of the task set before her. She, an ordinary young woman, was to bear the Son of God, the long-awaited Messiah who would redeem mankind from sin and darkness.
Mary's response to this astounding news demonstrates her remarkable faith and unwavering trust in God's plan. She humbly offers herself to His will, saying, "I am the Lord's servant. May your word to me be fulfilled" (Luke 1:38, NIV). In her surrender, Mary becomes the model of obedience and the example of faith, accepting the tremendous responsibility entrusted to her with grace and humility.
This moment of the Annunciation is not just a historical event but a profound manifestation of God's love for humanity. Through Mary's consent, God chose to enter into the world as a vulnerable infant, sharing our human nature while remaining fully divine. In this pivotal moment, the Incarnation, God's redemptive plan began to unfold, offering hope, salvation, and the promise of eternal life to all who believe.
The Annunciation, the first Joyful Mystery of the Rosary, serves as a powerful reminder of the power of faith, trust, and surrender to God's divine will. Mary's encounter with the angel Gabriel invites us to reflect on our own lives and consider how we respond to God's call. Like Mary, we are called to embrace our roles in God's plan, no matter how uncertain or challenging they may seem.
As we meditate on the Annunciation, may we find inspiration in Mary's extraordinary faith and her resolute "yes" to God's invitation. Let us be reminded that through Christ's birth life death and resurrection we have received the greatest gift of all—salvation and the opportunity to participate in God's eternal love. May the first Joyful Mystery of the Rosary inspire us to seek God's will in our lives and respond with the same faith and obedience that characterized the Blessed Virgin Mary.
A Brief History of the Rosary
The Rosary has been a source of comfort and strength for countless believers throughout history. Its simple structure allows anyone to participate in this powerful prayer, regardless of their level of education or knowledge of scripture.
The Rosary is a prayer full of worship of Christ and devotion to Mary. It includes the Creed, the Our Father, the Hail Mary, the Glory Be, and the Salve Regina. Ten Hail Marys are grouped into decades, each associated with the Joyful, Luminous, Sorrowful, and Glorious mysteries. Through this prayer, we ask for divine grace and Mary’s intercession.
The Rosary follows the rhythm of the Church’s liturgy. In medieval times, common people could not afford or read Psalters. Instead, they recited the Our Father 150 times each day, using beads to keep count. This became known as the “poor man’s prayer book.”
Marian devotion followed a similar pattern. Gabriel’s words were often added to psalms in monasteries. This reflected the transition from psalms to Christ’s coming through Mary. Believers repeated these words 150 times, using beads to keep count. The biblical quote about Gabriel’s words can be found in Luke 1:28 where it says "And coming in, he said to her, “Greetings, favored one! The Lord is with you.” “Blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus” forms the hinge of the Rosary, centering us on Christ.
St. Dominic is often credited with reviving the Rosary after a heavenly encounter with Mary. He used this devotion to combat the Albigensian heresy that denied Christ’s divinity.
In the 16th century, Pope Pius V urged believers to pray the Rosary against Muslim threats to Europe. The Christian victory at the Battle of Lepanto in 1571 was attributed to Mary’s intervention. This led to the feast of Our Lady of Victory, later renamed Our Lady of Rosary.
Many saints have championed the Rosary as a means of achieving peace, conversion, and salvation. St. Louis de Monfort was one such saint who promoted Marian consecration through his writings on True Devotion to Mary. St. Max Kolbe was another saint who was devoted to Marian consecration and called “The Apostle of Consecration to Mary”. The Rosary has also been associated with numerous miracles throughout history. Many believers have reported experiencing profound peace or receiving answers to their prayers while praying the rosary.
The Rosary is a gift from God and Mary. Through its rhythmic repetition, believers nurture faith, hope, and love.
We can get a good “screenshot” of the Gospel by focusing on the different mysteries of the Rosary. By focusing on the mysteries, we can trace Christ’s life from birth to Resurrection. Mary is also highlighted as the first disciple all the way to her Ascension and Crowning in Heaven. In this prayer, we underscore our reverence for Mary while reserving our highest adoration for God.
The repetition of prayers creates a meditative state that allows us to focus our minds on God and open our hearts to His grace. Each mystery of Rosary has its own spiritual fruit that we can meditate upon. These fruits are virtues that we can cultivate in our lives through prayerful reflection. The rosary serves as a bridge between us and the Divine.
The Rosary is a powerful tool for deepening our relationship with God and Mary. Its simplicity makes it accessible to everyone while its depth allows for endless exploration and growth in faith.
Typology: The Annunciation and the Visitation
The First and Second Joyful Mysteries of the Rosary
I discovered the Rosary later in life, and as I delved into its various mysteries, I relied on books and pamphlets to guide my understanding. These resources provided me with profound insights into the life of Jesus and his first disciple, Mary, enriching my knowledge of the Gospels and the New Testament. However, it wasn't until years later that I decided to embark on a deeper exploration of the Bible itself. My initial reading of it was somewhat hasty, and I still chuckle at the memories of my Bible partner and I attempting to predict whether the kings in 2 Kings would be virtuous or wicked before delving into the next passage.
Gradually, my curiosity led me to explore the footnotes, providing a new layer of understanding. Eventually, I enrolled in a Zoom class at Mary Queen, where I encountered a term that profoundly transformed my comprehension of both the Bible and the Rosary: "typology." Typology refers to a biblical event or person from the Old Testament that serves as a foreshadowing or correspondence to an event or person in the New Testament. It also serves as a testament to God's unwavering faithfulness to His promises.
One of my initial meditations centered around the first Joyful Mystery: the Annunciation, primarily based on Luke 1:26-28. In this passage, the angel Gabriel reveals to Mary that she will conceive Jesus, and her obedient and humble acceptance of this divine news provides ample material for reflection. However, John 1:14 added another layer of meaning: "And the Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us, and we saw his glory, the glory as of the Father’s only Son, full of grace and truth." Though I may lack the depth of understanding like that of scholars Drs. Tim Gray or Scott Hahn, I suddenly grasped the typological connection between Adam and Eve and Jesus and Mary. Just as Eve and Adam introduced Original Sin into the world, Jesus brought salvation into the world. This realization shed light on why Mary is often referred to as the New Eve.
Intriguingly, this newfound understanding led me to revisit the film "Raiders of the Lost Ark." The Word of God, symbolized by the fragments of the Ten Commandments, resided within the Ark of the Covenant. As a child, I was captivated by the mystery surrounding this sacred vessel—the aversion of mice to it and its ability to erase the Nazi symbol stamped upon it. It appeared that evil could not coexist with the Ark and the Word of God.
Throughout the Old Testament, figures like Moses and Joshua bore the Ark of the Covenant, which guided their people and secured victories over their enemies. Numerous other events involving the Philistines, David, and Solomon are woven into this tapestry, but I won't delve into those details here. What became clear is that the Word of God possessed immense power, influencing its surroundings, people, and entire nations.
Jesus, the Word of God incarnate, was carried within the womb of the Virgin Mary. In the words of John, He was "full of grace and truth." Just as Gabriel greeted Mary with the words, "Hail favored one, the Lord is with you" (Luke 1:28), Mary herself became the New Ark of the Covenant, bearing the Word of God. She was filled with the grace and truth of Jesus Himself.
During her sixth month of pregnancy, Mary paid a visit to her elderly cousin Elizabeth, who was also expecting a child, John the Baptist. This event is the second Joyful Mystery of the Rosary. My initial understanding of this mystery centered on Mary's charitable and selfless act in assisting Elizabeth, despite her own pregnancy. However, a deeper examination revealed a profound connection to the Ark. When Elizabeth heard Mary's greeting, her infant leaped in her womb, and Elizabeth, filled with the Holy Spirit, exclaimed, "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" (Luke 1:41-44). Just as the Word within the New Ark of the Covenant, Jesus' presence within Mary had the extraordinary ability to be sensed by Elizabeth's unborn child.
Jesus possessed the power to impact His surroundings, people, and entire nations, just as the Ark had done in the Old Testament. He would ultimately triumph over evil and become the ultimate King.
Reflecting on these typologies between the Old and New Testaments and the first two Joyful Mysteries tempts me to dive further into this delightful, endless rabbit hole of discovery. The more I contemplate the rich and mysterious promises that God fulfills in the New Testament, the more I appreciate the awe-inspiring culmination of centuries of prophecies and anticipation.
I am deeply grateful to E. K. for introducing me to the term "typology," which has enriched my spiritual journey and deepened my understanding of the Rosary and the Bible.
The Nativity: Embracing Spiritual Poverty
The Third Joyful Mystery of the Rosary
As I opened the grand, white leather-bound Bible, I came across a two-page spread outlining the Rosary. The words on those pages were somewhat bewildering to me, given my limited reading experience, but amidst the text, I found a familiar story – the Nativity. The Nativity had been a recurring topic in my Sunday school lessons and family discussions. Like most children, I was captivated by the image of baby Jesus. I often wondered what it must have been like for Him to sleep in a humble stable surrounded by animals.
Years later, as I prayed the Rosary alone, I encountered a Rosary pamphlet that assigned the "Fruit of the Mystery" for the Nativity as "poverty of Spirit." This phrase resonated with me, as it seemed to suggest that, despite their modest surroundings, the Holy Family's love for God was unwavering. It served as a reminder that material wealth is not a prerequisite for genuine worship.
This interpretation, while not incorrect, only scratched the surface. In the Beatitudes, Jesus uses the phrase "poor in spirit" in Matthew 5:3, during His sermon on the mountainside. It struck me that His audience was not the rich and powerful but the everyday working class, the very people He would later feed with fish and bread.
So, what sets these humble, impoverished individuals apart from the wealthy and influential? What distinguishes the Holy Family in the Nativity from a woman giving birth in the comfort of a warm, safe environment? The answer lies in their profound dependence on God.
By shedding excesses and comforts, one can more easily prioritize what truly matters. In our modern world, we often take essentials like running water and air conditioning for granted. But Christ's followers lived in a time when food and shelter were uncertain. Their reliance on God's benevolence was palpable, and they placed their complete trust in Him to meet their needs.
This dependence extended to Jesus, Mary, and Joseph. Reflecting on the Nativity, it becomes evident that the Holy Family also relied entirely on God for their protection. Jesus, in His infancy, made Himself utterly vulnerable. The Holy Family completely trusted in God’s plan for them.
We live in a society which idolizes the gumption to go out and make a way for ourselves through independence, goal setting, and self-reliance. We are told to go out and make something of ourselves and to go out and make something happen. It is easy to forget about God. It is easy to believe that we are the masters of our own destinies.
Hence, "poor in Spirit" or "poverty of Spirit" can be understood as our unwavering dependence on God and deliberate detachment from luxuries. He is the source of every breath we take, every refreshing sip of water, and every warm ray of sunshine. Even with the present economy and our first world problems, most of us still live in relative paradise compared to the living conditions during Christ’s time. The challenge? The Fruit of the Third Joyful Mystery? We can strive to make ourselves as vulnerable and dependent as the Baby Jesus did, always bearing in mind that God is the ultimate provider for all our needs.
St. Max! Pray for us!
Photo courtesy of stpiusbrantford.ca
St. Maximilian Kolbe: A Martyr of Love and Purity
“The value of suffering depends more on how much love we put into it than on how much it makes us suffer.” St. Max Kolbe
Among the countless witnesses of love that history has recorded, few have shone as brightly as St. Maximilian Kolbe, a Polish priest who voluntarily offered his life for a stranger at Auschwitz, the notorious Nazi death camp. He is revered as a hero of charity and a canonized saint of the Catholic Church. He lived out what Jesus taught: "There is no greater love than to lay down one's life for one's friends." (John 15:13)
Kolbe was born in 1894 in Poland, where he had a mystical encounter with the Virgin Mary as a child. She presented him with two crowns: a white one symbolizing purity, and a red one representing martyrdom. He accepted both, saying yes to God and his plan for his life.
He joined the Franciscan order and adopted the name Maximilian Maria. He pursued his studies in Rome and was ordained a priest. He had a passion for writing and publishing magazines that promoted the Catholic faith and devotion to Mary, the mother of Jesus. He founded a huge monastery in Poland called the City of Mary, which became a center of evangelization and charity.
His missionary zeal also took him to Japan, where he established another monastery and learned Japanese. He respected the culture and adapted his message to it. He returned to Poland due to illness.
When the Nazis invaded Poland, they despised Kolbe because he was a priest and he helped many people, especially Jews, who were in danger. They arrested him and deported him to Auschwitz.
Life at Auschwitz was unbearable for Kolbe. He suffered hunger, cold, fatigue, and beatings. But he never lost his faith or his love. He prayed and sang with the other prisoners. He comforted them and gave them hope.
One day, a prisoner escaped from the camp. The Nazis were furious and decided to kill 10 men as punishment. They selected Franciszek Gajowniczek, who cried out for his wife and children. Kolbe felt compassion for him and offered to die in his place. The Nazis agreed and confined Kolbe and nine other men in a dark bunker.
Kolbe was brave and calm in the bunker. He prayed and sang with the men. He told them not to be afraid but to trust in God. He was the last one to die after two weeks without food or water.
Kolbe's sacrifice was a witness of his love for God and his neighbor. He died for a man he did not know, like Jesus died for us on the cross.
Before he died, he was injected with carbolic acid by the camp guards, a cruel way of killing that was used on many prisoners. He raised his arm and awaited the injection with peace. He died on August 14, 1941, a day that is now celebrated as his feast day by the Church.
If you want to know more about St. Max or follow his consecration method, here are two good books:
Brown, H. E. (Trans.). (2015). She shall crush thy head: Selected writings of St. Maximilian Kolbe. Leonine Publishers.
Gaitley, M. E. (2011). 33 days to morning glory: A do-it-yourself retreat in preparation for Marian consecration. Stockbridge, MA: Marian Press.
Expressing Gratitude for Things that Bring Joy
Expressing Gratitude: Things that Bring Joy to My Life
Gratitude has the power to transform our lives, making us happier and more content. It allows us to navigate through challenges with grace and appreciate the blessings bestowed upon us. I would like to share the things I am truly grateful for and explain why they hold such significance in my life.
Jesus: The Ultimate Source of Gratitude
First and foremost, I am immensely grateful for Jesus, my Lord and Savior. He is the very reason for my existence, providing hope, and filling my life with boundless love. Through His sacrifice on the cross, He bestowed upon me the gift of eternal life. His unwavering presence guides, comforts, forgives, and teaches me. He is my dearest friend, my ultimate mentor, and the ruler of my heart. I express gratitude for His grace, mercy, and the everlasting impact He has on my life.
My Family: A Treasure Beyond Measure
The love and unwavering support of my family fill me with immense gratitude. Their presence in my life is an incredible blessing. My brother, a mentor-like figure, has been my rock through thick and thin. My sister-in-law has embraced me as a sister and welcomed me wholeheartedly into their family. My nephew and niece, like my own children, bring immeasurable joy and laughter to my days. Their intelligence, kindness, and beauty are qualities that I deeply cherish.
Rosaries: A Sacred Connection
The gift of the rosary fills me with gratitude as it provides a profound connection to Jesus and Mary. This powerful prayer aids me in meditating on the mysteries of Christ's life, death, and resurrection while seeking their intercession. During times of need, the rosary brings me peace, strength, and comfort. My personal favorite is the Luminous Mysteries, which reflect on Jesus' public ministry.
The Enchanting Melodies of Piano Solo Music
The beauty of piano solo music is a source of deep gratitude for me. Its enchanting melodies have the ability to soothe my soul and uplift my spirit. As a passionate admirer and listener, I find solace and self-expression in this form of art. Composers such as Rachmaninoff, Chopin, Debussy, and Beethoven captivate my heart with their diverse range of emotions. From moments of pure joy to the depths of sorrow, and from serene calmness to passionate fervor, piano solo music helps me relax, focus, and find solace.
Binky Sue: My Adorable Furry Companion
In Binky Sue, my Chiweenie (a Chihuahua and Dachshund mix), I find endless reasons to be grateful. Her adorable presence brings happiness into my life every single day. With her loyalty, playfulness, cuddliness, and intelligence, she never fails to bring a smile to my face. Snuggling on the couch or in bed, she greets me with an enthusiastic wagging tail and a loving lick on the face. Her protective nature shines through as she barks at anyone approaching our door. She is not just a furry companion but a true friend.
The Inspiring Beauty of Artwork
Artwork that inspires and fills me with awe is another source of deep gratitude in my life. I find immense pleasure in admiring vintage and antique photos, embroidery, landscapes, and historical portraits that embody creativity and talent. They capture the essence of different eras, places, and people, showcasing the diverse cultures and perspectives of the world. Artwork enables me to appreciate the profound beauty and wonder of God's creation.
Lavender Scented Candles: Aromatherapy for the Soul
I express gratitude for the soothing aroma of lavender scented candles, which calms my mind and relaxes my body. These candles hold a special place in my heart and are an integral part of my relaxation routine. Creating a cozy and warm atmosphere in my home, they aid in a restful night's sleep. The fragrance of lavender also evokes the imagery of blooming flowers during spring, filling the air with their delicate scent.
Decided Excellence Catholic Media: A Fulfilling Profession
Decided Excellence Catholic Media is a company that I am deeply grateful to be a part of. As a publisher, I am honored to share the good news of the Catholic faith, helping others deepen their relationship with God. The opportunity to connect with numerous inspiring individuals, both customers and colleagues, fills me with gratitude. Their stories, testimonies, and unwavering faith serve as constant reminders of the beauty and strength of the human spirit.
Crisp Air Conditioning: Relief in the Summer Heat
Living in Texas, where summers are scorching and humid, I am incredibly grateful for crisp air conditioning. It ensures that I remain cool and comfortable amidst the sweltering heat. Having an efficient air conditioning system in my home, car, and office allows me to enjoy the summer without the discomfort of sweating or the risk of heat exhaustion.
Dooney and Bourke Purses: Timeless Elegance
Dooney and Bourke purses hold a special place in my heart as they combine style and durability. I express gratitude for these accessories that I love to collect and use. Crafted with high-quality leather, they possess a classic and elegant design. Available in various colors, shapes, and sizes, they effortlessly complement any outfit or occasion. The ample space and compartments provide practicality, allowing me to carry my phone, wallet, keys, and makeup. Wearing these purses always elicits compliments and adds an extra touch of sophistication.
St. Maximilian Kolbe: A Role Model of Faith and Courage
St. Maximilian Kolbe holds a significant place in my heart as one of my patron saints and a true role model. As a Polish priest and martyr during World War II, he selflessly offered his life in exchange for a fellow prisoner who had a family. His acts of charity, faith, and unwavering courage inspire me greatly. Moreover, his founding of the Militia Immaculata, a movement dedicated to promoting devotion to Mary and evangelization, further fuels my admiration. I invoke his intercession daily, seeking guidance and strength.
NASA: Awe-Inspiring Explorations
Gratitude fills my heart for NASA, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration of the United States. Their exploration of space, scientific advancements, and technological developments have been truly remarkable. Accomplishments such as landing humans on the moon, sending probes to other planets, launching telescopes into orbit, and discovering new worlds leave me in awe. The vision, mission, and values of NASA, including curiosity, innovation, excellence, and teamwork, continually inspire me.
Vintage Music Scores: Windows into Musical History
The presence of vintage music scores in my life fills me with immense gratitude. These original and aged compositions, especially those for piano solo, hold historical and artistic significance. Treasuring them as invaluable artifacts, I am captivated by the handwritten or printed notes, annotations, signatures, and stamps that adorn these scores. They bear witness to the stories of their composers, previous owners, performers, and the places they originated from. Through these scores, I feel a deep connection to the rich musical heritage and legacy of the artists who created them.
Dark Hardwood Furniture: Elegance in Every Corner
Dark hardwood furniture adds a touch of elegance and sophistication to my home, for which I am truly grateful. The allure of these pieces, including tables, chairs, cabinets, bookcases, and beds, is truly captivating. Crafted from robust and solid woods such as oak, walnut, cherry, or mahogany, they boast a glossy and dark finish. With their timeless and classic style, they seamlessly blend with any decor or theme. Not only are they durable and long-lasting, but they also require minimal maintenance, ensuring they remain unblemished for years to come.
Majestic Old Oak Trees: Symbols of Wisdom and Strength
Large old oak trees, the majestic wonders of nature, evoke a deep sense of gratitude within me. Their towering presence, be it in parks, forests, or gardens, fills me with awe and admiration. These giants possess thick and robust trunks, providing unwavering support to their sprawling branches. Their lush green leaves offer shade and shelter to all creatures. With acorns that nourish wildlife and give birth to new trees, they serve as homes to countless birds, squirrels, insects, and other living beings. Symbolizing wisdom, strength, and longevity, these magnificent trees inspire reverence.
Bubble Baths: Moments of Relaxation and Self-Care
Indulging in bubble baths is a self-care ritual that I am deeply grateful for. These relaxing and enjoyable experiences allow me to unwind and rejuvenate. With warm water, soap, or bath salts, creating frothy and bubbly layers, I find comfort and pampering in this simple pleasure. The delightful scents of lavender, vanilla, or rose enhance the experience, washing away stress, dirt, and worries. Bubble baths leave me feeling refreshed, cleansed, and revitalized, ready to take on the world.
Friends Who Inspire Personal Growth
Finally, I express immense gratitude for friends who inspire me to become the best version of myself. These cherished companions share my values, goals, and dreams. They encourage me to pursue my passions, talents, and interests while challenging me to grow in faith, knowledge, and virtue. Their unwavering support during times of trouble or need, and their celebration of my joy and success, mean the world to me. Their honesty when I falter allows me to learn and grow, strengthening our bond and contributing to my personal development.
The list continues when inspiration strikes....
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