March 29, 2005

“…Then He said to the disciple, ‘Behold, your mother!’ And from that hour the disciple took her to his own home.” Jn 19:27

John, in his obedience to his Master, took Mary into his home after the crucifixion. During the following days, a new relationship grew between the disciple and the Mother. The forty days after the resurrection must have been filled with one-on-one time between John and Mary. This being the case, the new Mother and son must have been pondering these events and meetings, resulting in John getting to know Jesus better through Mary. Mary’s memories must have fascinated John and instructed all the others gathered in that upper room, preparing them for the outpouring of the Holy Spirit as had previously occurred some thirty-three years earlier in her life.

There is a lot we don’t know about the disciple and his new Mother, but the Easter Season is an appropriate time for us to reflect on their relationship. Pope John Paul II is calling us to take our place at the school of the saints, who are interpreters of true Eucharistic piety. Above all, to listen to Mary Most Holy, in whom the mystery of the Eucharist appears, more than in anyone else, as a mystery of light.

O Blessed Virgin Mary, your spouse Saint Joseph was told by an angel not to be afraid to take you into his home. At the cross your Son said to Saint John, “Behold your mother” and from that hour, he took you into his home. So now we ask that you graciously come into the home of our hearts. Come as the mother who obtains for us in abundance the gifts of the Holy Spirit. Come as our perfect model of faith, hope and love.

Br. John Paul Ouellette, CFR
Local Servant, St. Fidelis Friary, London, England

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