Life

Readings for Tuesday September 8, 2009

Feast of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary

First Reading: Micah 5:1-4 or Romans 8:28-30
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 13
Gospel: Matthew 1:1-23


We know that all things work for good for those who love God, who are called according to his purpose. For those he foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, so that he might be the firstborn among many brothers. And those he predestined he also called; and those he called he also justified; and those he justified he also glorified. (Rom 8:28-30)

Today we celebrate the feast of the nativity of our Blessed Mother, Mary. As we reflect on her birth and her role as the mother of God, let us keep in our hearts one thing: every life has value. Do you think at the time that Mary's parents found out that they were pregnant with her that they knew her purpose? Do you think that they had any idea that the baby that was in the womb would one day give birth to our savior and one day become queen of heaven? No, they had no idea. The important thing is that they chose to bring this child into this world, not knowing her purpose and they chose to raise her and love her regardless of what she would become.

We must remember that each of us has a purpose in life. Each life no matter how old or how young has a purpose, and it is never of a question of whether a particular life has value or not, because every life has value. God has a plan for every life, and while we may not always know His plan, we must have faith and trust that His plan is perfect.

Father above, we thank you and praise you for the gift of this day. Lord, you gave us Mary as our mother, may we always go to her and may we always listen to her when she tells us to listen to what you say. Lord, we pray that we can become a nation and world that values life and decides to cherish and protect life at all stages. We pray for all those who are contemplating abortion and for the healing of those who have had abortion. We ask this all through Christ our Lord. Amen.

Hail Mary, full of Grace, Blessed are though among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb Jesus. Holy Mary, mother of God, pray for us sinners now and at the hour of our death.