Thought for the Day – 24 May
In the Litany of the Blessed Virgin Mary, commonly known as the Litany of Loreto, there are several “official” titles with which the Church honours Mary: Mother of God; Queen Assumed into Heaven; Mirror of Justice; Seat of Wisdom; Ark of the Covenant; Help of Christians. These titles reflect aspects of Mary’s role in God’s plan, her exalted status as the Mother of God and the many ways she helps God’s people as their mother. Her role in salvation history is not insignificant and is far from finished. Since the apostolic age, her primary task has been to help the pilgrim Church on her journey to her heavenly home.
Our Lady’s help encompasses the entire Church. She reaches out to us constantly and her help takes many forms. She is defender and protectress, teacher and guide, the first Christian and our model in faith. She is a comforting mother embracing us in every aspect of our humanity. She is also aware of Satan and his minions and intervenes for us as the New Eve who is neither fooled nor intimidated by his deceptions. The title “Help of Christians” truly embodies her role of co-operation in our redemption, her maternal mediation of grace in our lives and her advocacy for us before God.
Our Lady, Help of Christians, help us, pray for us!
AnaStpaul 