When Pope Leo was elected, one of the reflections was that he was a polyglot who could speak easily in different languages. I am often struck by the ability of people who can speak in another language naturally, as if it were their own. In a world that usually seems flooded by words, we often struggle to be understood in our native tongue. The ability to hear what another says but to listen to its emphasis becomes part of our everyday life. We are called to discern what is spoken and what rings true. The ability to attend well to another assists in the proclamation of the Gospel in our current age.
As we gather to celebrate Pentecost, we notice that Mary is central to the birth of the Spirit of God in the infant Church. Just as she bore Jesus in her own womb and gave birth to him in Bethlehem, so she bears the embryonic Church in the room of her heart. This is seen in how people gather at the crib during Jesus' birth, and the disciples gather in the Upper Room around Mary. The wonder and awe are expressed in the descent of the Holy Spirit, who enables the voice of Jesus to be heard in many languages simultaneously. Mary, as Mother of the Church, prays for us and with us so that we may witness the Gospel in our daily lives.
This season reminds us that we are called to radiate God's love in the ordinary events of our lives. This is emphasised in how we are drawn into a Trinitarian relationship through the gifts of Jesus' Body and Blood. We touch the Sacred Heart of Jesus and the Immaculate Heart of Mary as we seek to live inspired by the Holy Spirit. Come, Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of your faithful and kindle in them the fire of your love.
No comments:
Post a Comment