Everyone needs a mother’s prayers

I’ve been thinking a lot about mothers this past week — myself as a mother, my own mother, and some local mothers I know who have lost their beloved son, husband and brother, leading me to a most famous mother: Mary, the mother of Jesus.

While the history and theology of Old Testament types of the Queen Mother and the Ark of the Covenant, where she is never separated from Christ, make for fascinating studies, there is also much to emulate in the everyday from the plain narrative of New Testament stories. Our Catholic faith calls upon all people, women and men, to look and learn from her. Our catechism calls her, “a sign of certain hope and comfort to the pilgrim people of God (section 972).”

She was calm in difficult circumstances: when told of the conception of Jesus, her answer was, “Let it be to me according to what you have said.” We have so many questions and worries about the future for our children. Her fiat (“Let it be”) is a good mantra. In my difficulties, Lord, help me to be calm and accept your plans like Mary.

She considered the shepherd’s nativity adulation: she neither argued nor waved them away, but pondered. How many times has life thrown curve balls that seem so out of place? In these surprises, Lord, may I take the time to ponder first like Mary.

She consecrated her son at the temple: she performed the duties of her Faith and listened to Simeon’s troubling prophesy about a sword of sorrow piercing her heart. Oh yes, motherhood can pierce hearts, making it nearly impossible to function normally, especially for my friends who have buried their children or mothers. In my daily life, Lord, increase my devotion to our Holy Faith, come what may, like Mary.

She was courageous in a fearful time: when heeding Joseph’s dream and fleeing with a baby to Egypt. Would I ever have the courage to be so bold? When I am paralyzed with fear, Lord, give me courage like Mary.

She was content in a less than ideal situation: keeping home in a foreign land while awaiting another angelic visit to call them home. It is a waste of good energy to chafe and be miserable until more cheerful circumstances arise. In my imperfect situations, Lord, help me to be content.

She was confused at times: when Jesus was lost and found in the temple and gave the cryptic answer, “I must be about My Father’s business.” This has to be the worst parenting mistake of all time: “We’ve lost the Messiah” — how refreshing to read of her aggravation! In my confusion with my children, Lord, help me to practice patience.

She was confident at the wedding in Cana: she noticed a problem and marched directly to Jesus, then ordered the servants to obey him. What a wonderful picture of a community lady taking charge. In my world, Lord, help me to confidently engage people while keeping close to you.

She was crushed in sorrow, but kept her faith: she remained with her dear son during his torturous murder and burial, then prayed with the disciples in the upper room. What breathtaking horror; what strength for a mother; what profound sorrow. In my sorrow, Lord, I want to love and follow you.

Even if we don’t feel much cause to celebrate Mother’s Day, there is a mother we can honor and thank. Even if we think we don’t know anyone in real life, there is a woman to look to and learn from. Even if motherhood has pierced and broken our hearts, there is a woman who knows, and we can be grateful.

Meditating upon these stories is a precious pastime with virtuous results. She, like all those who have passed on before us, is very much alive in heaven and prays for us. Her prayer is fervent and effectual (James 5:16); she is part of the cloud of witnesses surrounding and encouraging us (Hebrews 12:1); her prayers along with ours are incense at the throne of God (Revelation 8:4).

If I were hanged on the highest hill,

Mother o’ mine, O mother o’ mine

I know whose love would follow me still,

Mother o’ mine, O mother o’ mine!

If I were drowned in the deepest sea,

Mother o’ mine, O mother o’ mine

I know whose tears would come down to me,

Mother o’ mine, O mother o’ mine!

If I were damned of body and soul,

I know whose prayers would make me whole,

Mother o’ mine, O mother o’ mine!

(Rudyard Kipling)

Everyone needs a mother’s prayers. Mary will pray for you if you need her to.