Dear brothers and sisters, today, we gather on this Saturday dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary, a tradition steeped in centuries of devotion. We celebrate her pivotal role in the life of Jesus and, consequently, in our own salvation.
In the Gospel of Mark, we hear about the crowd following Jesus for three days without food. They are hungry, weary, and perhaps questioning their dedication. Jesus, moved by compassion, asks his disciples about the available resources. "Where can anyone get enough bread to satisfy them here in this deserted place?" they reply (Mk 8:4). The apostles express their helplessness.
This echoes the story of Adam and Eve in Genesis. After their transgression, they experience shame and hide from God. God, in His infinite mercy, seeks them out, initiating a dialogue that ultimately points to humanity's need for redemption. "Who told you that you were naked?" (Gn 3:11), He asks, trying to illicit a contrition which leads to a confession. Remind us of anything?
Both narratives reveal a common thread: a sense of lack, a feeling of inadequacy, and a yearning for something more. Yet, in both instances, God responds with grace and provision. He clothes Adam and Eve and feeds the multitude. So too with us, when we draw near his merciful Heart in confession, he replenishes our souls.
This brings us to the heart of our Marian devotion, and, in particular, to the example of Saint Francis, who wholeheartedly embraced the spirit of poverty and humility which he saw modelled in our Blessed Mother perfectly, she who was humble, obedient, and completely surrendered to God's will. He often spoke of her as the "Virgin Made Church," recognizing her unique role in bringing Christ into the world. Saint Francis understood that just as Mary nourished and cared for the infant Jesus, so too does she nourish us spiritually, guiding us closer to her Son.
As you probably know, the growing devotion in honor of the Immaculate Conception by the Franciscans contributed to furthering the Marian Saturdays. In 1633 the Order's General Chapter determined that a special Holy Mass in honor of this mystery was to be celebrated, and of course one of the provinces I belong to, and many around the world are dedicated to our Blessed Mother’s Immaculate Conception.
Just as Mary was central to Francis's spirituality, she must be central to ours too! Thinking back to the Gospel, she provides spiritual food. Consider that we are being fed even when we are surrounded by the deserted place of doubt. Consider that we are being clothed even when we are naked with shame.
Let us turn to Mary, who is the mother of all the living. Let us ask for her intercession, her guidance, and her love.
As we pray the rosary or attend Mass or engage in other devotions today, let us remember that we're not just honoring Mary; we're also being fed by her. We're being nourished by her love, her compassion, and her mercy. And as we receive this nourishment, let us remember to share it with others, just as Mary shared her love with Jesus. Tradition has it that before appearing to so many on Easter Sunday morning, our Lord had already appeared to his Mother the day before, on Saturday. He wished to show her his particular love and appreciation for her maternal care and support which helped him accomplish the Father’s will. May we thank her always for the same thing she does in our own lives and may she be blessed forever, until through God’s mercy, we see her and praise him together in paradise. Amen.
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