Just Gospel: Called to Follow Mary’s Example Part II

Sister JulieAnn Sheahan

January 30, 2019

Franciscan Sister of Christian Charity Sister Kathleen Murphy continues her reflection on Pope Francis’ monthly intention.

Yet so many young people are surviving in unjust societies. They lack education, support and opportunities for their futures. The Holy Father warns us to avoid becoming a “single-issue Christian”, but to prefer the stance of a whole-hearted follower of the Lord who seeks out a Gospel justice in every situation. He writes, “We cannot uphold an ideal of holiness that would ignore injustice in our world. We often hear it said that the situation of migrants, for example, is a lesser issue. Some Catholics consider it a secondary issue compared to the ‘grave’ bioethical questions. That a politician looking for votes might say such a thing is understandable, but not a Christian, for whom the only proper attitude is to stand in the shoes of those brothers and sisters of ours who risk their lives to offer a future to their children. Can we not realize that this is exactly what Jesus demands of us?”

In closing his document, Pope Francis again turns to Mary. We join him at her feet as we consider his words, “She is that woman who rejoiced in the presence of God, who treasured everything in her heart, and who let herself be pierced by the sword. Mary is the saint among the saints, blessed above all others. She teaches us the way of holiness and she walks ever at our side. Our conversation with her consoles, frees, and sanctifies us. Mary our Mother does not need a flood of words. All we need do is whisper time and time again: ‘Hail Mary…’”


In our prayers for the youth of Latin America, we can call to mind the lovely words of a Spanish hymn to Our Lady of Guadalupe:
Look, for I am Mexican
and for that I am yours
And I search in vain in the world
for another who loves you more than I.
Awaken, Mother, awaken
look, the dawn has come
Look at me as I lay at your feet
and give me your blessing.

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