“All generations will call me blessed!”, Mary: Day 005

“All generations will call me blessed!”

St. Alphonsus invites us to be among those whom Mary prophesied would call her blessed down through the generations

How many who were once proud have become humble by devotion to Mary! How many who were ruled by passion have become restrained! How many in the midst of darkness have found light! How many who were in despair have found confidence! How many who were lost have found salvation by the same powerful means! All this, Mary clearly foretold in the house of Elizabeth, in her own sublime canticle: “Behold, henceforth all generations will call me blessed!” (Lk 1:48). And St. Bernard, interpreting her words, says, “All generations call you blessed, because you have given life and glory to all nations; for in you sinners find pardon, and the righteous find perseverance in the grace of God.”

For this reason, the devout monk Lanspergius has our Lord address the world in this way: “Men, poor children of Adam, who live surrounded by so many enemies and in the midst of so many trials! Endeavor to honor my Mother and yours in a special way. For I’ve given Mary to the world, so that she may be your model, and so that from her you may learn to lead good lives. I’ve given her also to be a refuge to which you can flee in all your afflictions and trials. I’ve

made this daughter of mine in such a way that no one need fear or have the least reluctance to turn to her. For this purpose I’ve created her of such a kind and compassionate disposition that she doesn’t know how to despise anyone who takes refuge with her, nor can she deny her favor to anyone who seeks it. The mantle of her mercy is open to all, and she allows no one to leave her feet without consoling him.

May the immense goodness of our God be ever praised and blessed for having given us such a great, such a tender, such a loving mother and advocate! —St. Alphonsus Liguori, The Glories of Mary

IN GOD’S PRESENCE, CONSIDER . . .

Am I among those who call Mary blessed? Is it my frequent habit to take time to praise her for her role in my salvation, and to ask for her assistance in living a holy life?

CLOSING PRAYER

With St. Elizabeth, I greet you, my Lady: “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb!” (Lk 1:42).

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