Mary and the Scourge of 2020: Weekly Message for 05-05-2020

Dear Friends in Christ,

The coronavirus crisis could rank as the most world-jolting event since the likes of World War II or the Spanish flu of 1918-1919.

Its unfolding has shaken confidence in the global economy and pushed countless families and governments to the brink.

The crisis has also prompted lots of soul-searching and questions. 

Two questions stand out. Will the crisis help the world focus more on the things that matter most, such as faith and families? Or will it do untold damage to both? The answers might differ wildly from household to household, soul to soul. 

In this month of May dedicated to Mary, it might be a good moment to consider how the Blessed Virgin responded to challenges in her own life.

First, there was the Annunciation, where she was asked by an angel to be the Mother of the Messiah. How improbable that must have seemed to a young woman who apparently was already set on lifelong virginity.

Or the birth of her baby in a cave in Bethlehem – couldn’t that inn squeeze in a few more guests? And what of that night flight into Egypt? 

And later, what of the townsfolk in Nazareth who wanted to toss her Son headlong down a hill? And, finally, the excruciation of Calvary?

As we grapple with the Scourge of 2020, it is as fitting as ever to pray to the one who knew how to ponder mysterious things in her heart and who believed “that all things work for good for those who love God” (Romans 8:28).

A Mother’s Tears, our Retreat Guide on Our Lady of Sorrows might help you enter the heart of one who was no stranger to crises and who never lost faith.

Wise Mother that she is, she still has lots to teach us about life.

In Christ,

Father Edward McIlmail, LC
Ask a Priest contributor
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