Our Lady of Guadalupe Lesson: Don’t Be Afraid to Ask For Roses

The annual Walk to Mary was recently held at the Shrine of Our Lady of Champion. Franciscan Sisters of Christian Charity registered for the pilgrimage. We were reminded of Adele who spoke to her parish priest, and he instructed her that if the lady appeared to her again to ask the question, “In God’s name, who are you and what do you want of me?”

At this time in your life, it may be equally wise to follow the advice of a Franciscan Bishop. More pointedly, Bishop Zumarraga in nearby Mexico comes to mind. He was truly uncertain about his encounter with Juan Diego. Who was this beautiful lady that his visitor said asked for a church to be built? Why would she ask Juan to come to him? So what does he do? Bishop, rather than asking a question, asks for a sign. St. Francis was good at this, too. After all, his way of life was based on turning the pages of a book of the Gospels. Have you ever asked God for a sign to know what to do?

Our Lady of Guadalupe’s answer to this man of God was rare, yet lovingly profound. Her response was naturally beautiful. The mountain-side roses certainly were a sign that spoke loud to a lover of St. Francis’ Canticle of Creation. However, in more careful study and scent, they were roses from Bishop Zumarraga’s homeland of Castile, Spain. They revealed a place in his heart where these roses were not known to be found in Mexico. Awake, Bishop knew this moment was different. Even Juan would not know the depth of mystery in this gift. The roses were a miracle in themselves! Mary could not have been more personal and clear. Her arrangement of these same beloved roses created an image that was more than a thousand words.

What’s the lesson? “Don’t be afraid to ask for roses, and don’t be surprised when they appear.” (Photo: National Shrine Cathedral of Our Lady of Guadalupe, Dallas, Texas)

On this Mother’s Day Weekend, is it time for you to ask for a sign from Our Blessed Mother? Pray and expect that she will answer tenderly. Also, have no fear that she knows your heart and that of her Son Jesus and will respond personally and with great love. The world needs you. God calls you. We invite you.