Vamshi Eedara csc –
Readings: 1Sam 1:24-28; Lk 1: 46-56
In the first reading we see Hanna giving praise to God for the marvelous deeds done in her life. Hannah offers her child to God as she vowed before God. She brings her child in the presence of God and lives in the temple. She speaks to the priest Eli that if he lives, he will serve in the presence of God. When they make a vow to God according to Jewish custom it was only for fifty years, but she offers Samuel lifelong in the service of God to serve his people.
In the gospel reading we have the Magnificat for our reflection. Mary proclaims the goodness and greatness of God. Despite the highly unusual circumstances of her call to be the mother of Jesus, Mary rejoices and proclaims that God has looked upon her with great favor.
Mary’s immediate and heartfelt response to God’s call makes it clear that Mary had a deep, and personal relationship with God. Mother Mary was sometimes confused by her call, yet she trusted God who called her. She firmly believed that God would guide and support her.
Mother Mary gives total credit to God for everything, even as all generations will call her blessed. And finally, Mother Mary is aware that it is all because of God’s inherent nature of being faithful to his promises to show mercy to his people. Like Mother Mary, we also can experience the gift of a personal and intimate relationship with God by listening to his word and by doing his will in our day today life.