Lent devotion: listen to the word of God

As he spoke, a woman from the crowd called and said to him: "Blessed is the womb that brought you and the breast in which you nursed." He replied: "Rather, blessed are those who hear the word of God and keep it." Luke 11: 27-28

During Jesus' public ministry, a woman in the crowd called Jesus, honoring her mother. Jesus corrected it in a way. But his correction was not that which diminished his mother's bliss. Rather, Jesus' words raised his mother's bliss to a new level.

Who more than our Blessed Mother every day "listens to the word of God and observes it" with perfection? Nobody deserved this elevation to the bliss of our Blessed Mother more.

This truth was lived in particular while he was at the foot of the Cross, offering his Son to the Father with full knowledge of his saving sacrifice and with the full consent of his will. She, more than any other follower of her Son, understood the prophecies of the past and embraced them with complete submission.

And you? As you look at the cross of Jesus, can you see your life united with his on the cross? Are you able to embrace the burdens of sacrifice and self-giving that God is calling you to live? Are you able to keep every command of love from God, no matter how much he asks you? Are you able to "listen to the word of God and observe it?"

Reflect today on the true bliss of the Mother of God. She fully embraced the word of God and observed it to perfection. As a result, she was blessed beyond measure. God also wishes to bless you abundantly. The only requirement for these blessings is openness to the word of God and his full embrace. Understanding and embracing the mystery of the Cross in your life is truly the richest source of the blessings of Heaven. Understand and embrace the Cross and you will be blessed with our Blessed Mother.

Dearest Mother, you have allowed the mysteries of your Son's suffering and death to penetrate your mind and arouse great faith. As you understand, you have also accepted. I thank you for your perfect testimony and pray that I will follow your example.

My mother, draw me into the blessings which have been granted to you by your Son. Help me find great value in freely embracing the Cross. I would always like to see the Cross as the source of life's greatest joys.

My suffering Lord, I look at you with your mother and pray that I can see you as she sees you. I pray that I can understand the depth of love that motivated your complete gift of you. Pour your abundant blessings on me as I try to enter more fully into this mystery of your life and suffering. I believe, dear sir. Please help my moments of disbelief.

Mother Maria, pray for me. Jesus I believe in you.