SOCL, Guadalupe

Cycle A,B,C December 12, 2024

Blessed are you, holy Virgin Mary, deserving of all praise; from you rose the sun of justice, Christ our God.

See

Thought for the day

In today's readings, we see powerful images of divine presence - a woman clothed with the sun, a virgin receiving heaven's message, and God choosing to dwell among his people. Through Our Lady of Guadalupe, we are reminded that God continues to make his presence known in ways that speak to all peoples and cultures. Like Mary's appearance at Tepeyac, God meets us where we are, speaking in signs and languages we can understand. Her image brought hope to a new world, showing that God's love transcends all cultural boundaries and that divine messages often come wrapped in familiar, local symbols.

Listen

Zec 2:14-17; or Rv 11:19a, 12:1-6a, 10ab; Judith 13:18bcde, 19; Lk 1:26-38; Lk 1:39-47

Reflect

(Luke 1:26-38; Lk 1:39-47)

-The first reading proclaims "Sing and rejoice... I am coming to dwell among you." Reflect on how you experience God's presence in your daily life. How does Mary's appearance to Juan Diego show God's desire to be close to all peoples?

-The image of the woman clothed with the sun speaks of glory amid struggle. Consider the challenges in your own life. How might Mary's strength and dignity inspire you to face your own dragons with faith?

-Mary "traveled to the hill country in haste" to share her joy with Elizabeth. Think about your own response to God's blessings. How do you share your faith with others? What holds you back from proclaiming God's greatness?

-"Blessed are you who believed," Elizabeth tells Mary. Consider your own journey of faith. When has trusting in God's promises seemed difficult? How has Our Lady of Guadalupe's example helped strengthen your belief?

Pray

Loving God, through Our Lady of Guadalupe, who revealed Your tender care for all peoples, may we, like the roses in Juan Diego's tilma, carry Your message of hope with Mary's trust, devotion, and proclamation that nothing is impossible with You, as instruments of Your peace across cultures and divisions, united under her mantle of care, through Christ our Lord. Amen.