Memorial of the Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary

Today, we celebrate the memorial of the presentation of the Blessed Virgin at the age of three by her parents, Ann and Joachim, in the Temple of Jerusalem. Her consecration reflects the most perfect sacrifice that can be offered. It is the surrendering of one’s whole being to the will of God. This holy event conferred on Mary her lifelong holiness and grace. Later in her life, she would respond to God’s call: “Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord. May it be done to me according to your word” (Luke 1:38).

Mary’s “yes” to God’s invitation to sacredness is the same “yes” of St Peter Julian Eymard’s practice of the “gift of self.” It reveals an endeavor to willingly submit to God’s divine will, believing that by relinquishing one’s preoccupation with self, the kingdom of God may be experienced and reign on earth as it is in heaven.

Christ Jesus is the ultimate exemplar of self-giving. He lived and died to save humanity and restore people’s relationship with God. At every eucharistic celebration, we are summoned to become what we receive: his body, blood, soul, and divinity. We are called to imitate Mary, our Lady of the Blessed Sacrament, to be “handmaids” and “menservants” of our Lord. May it be done to us according to God’s will.

Prayer:

Hail Mary, full of grace. The Lord is with you. Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners, now and at the hour of our death. Amen.