with all of its undertows. Mary’s way is to become an ark within, where the same God who became incarnate within her takes up His residence in us. He comes to dwell in all men and women who say “Yes” to Him.

Mary’s Prayer is an invitation to participate in the ongoing incarnation of God’s Love, for the sake of world. It is an invitation to live redemptively. In living a surrendered life we not only are transformed ourselves, but we also participate in the mediation of God’s love to others. The ongoing creative and redemptive work of God’s love continues through us as we learn how to become arks, or dwelling places, through which Love comes alive for all those around us.

We enter into Christ’s incarnation as we participate in the Prayer of Mary. But first, we must hear God’s invitation. We must learn to listen for it with our whole hearts. In response, we can respond the same way Mary did: “Behold the servant of the Lord. Be it done unto me according to Thy word…”

God takes the initiative. He may whisper to our hearts through His Holy Spirit, or he may speak through a chosen messenger, His angel. But it is God who always initiates and then awaits our response. Mary, in her selflessness, was open to the angel’s visit. She recognized who was speaking. She listened, received and responded. In so doing, she demonstrated the framework of all authentic spirituality. God initiates a relationship and we respond in surrender to Him. This dynamic, this heavenly road, leads to a dialogue, a conversation, a way of life.

By saying Yes, through our own Fiat, we are set apart. Consecrated. Made holy.

Mary shows us that way.

____________________

This is an excerpt from “The Prayer of Mary: Living the Surrendered Life”, by Deacon Keith Fournier


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Pope Benedict XVI's Prayer Intentions for January 2013
General Intention: The Faith of Christians. That in this Year of Faith Christians may deepen their knowledge of the mystery of Christ and witness joyfully to the gift of faith in him.
Missionary Intention: Middle Eastern Christians. That the Christian communities of the Middle East, often discriminated against, may receive from the Holy Spirit the strength of fidelity and perseverance.

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