Reflections

Yesterday evening's talk by Fr Renzo was very good for reflection - remember we had a Day of Recollection yesterday. He read from the Story of the Wedding in Cana. Then he offered some points taken from the point of view of Mary, whom we can imitate. I've added some of my own thoughts in it.

1. She was attentive and responsive. She responded to people, she interacted, she got involved - she was at a wedding. She did not live in her own exclusive world but she lived in community, with others. Are we open to others? interacting with others? or are we closed up in our own self-interest and indifference? Do we share their joys and sorrows?

2. She spoke for the voiceless. No one made a request but Mary took it upon herself to speak on their behalf. Who are those around us who have no voice? voiceless out of fear? out of indifference? out of oppression? Are we ready to speak on their behalf?

3. She was acutely aware of what was missing. She sought to fulfill this shortcoming. Are we aware of what is direly missing in our relationships? in society? in our spiritual life? or are we just "feel good" Christians. It takes honesty and humility to see what is lacking in our lives, our imperfections.

4. She brought joy. She was concern with the smooth running of the wedding so people do not get embarrassed or flustered or eventually angered. Do we seek joy for others? or only for ourselves?

5. She brought people to Christ and Christ to the people. Note that when Christ said "My time has not yet come", Mary's words to the servants "Do whatever he tells you" does not necessarily mean that she ignored or overrode his words. Rather it should be understood this way - "Do whatever Jesus tells you in due time, in his time, when he is ready". The servants therefore had to be very attentive and wait on Jesus' words when he was ready for action. She brought the servants to be attentive to Jesus and Jesus to be aware of the servants readiness to act. Are we preparing ourselves daily for Jesus' instructions? or is He waiting for us? Are we connecting or disconnecting with God?

Spend some time reflecting on some of these points - maybe God is trying to say something to you today.