Amazement and pondering

Today's gospel passage begins with a description of the encounter that took place between the shepherds and the child Jesus.  When they found the child, the shepherds made known what they had been told about him, and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds told them (Lk 2:17).  Then, the shepherds returned glorifying and praising God for all they had heard and seen (Lk 2:20), but Mary treasured all these words and pondered them in her heart (Lk 2:19).

The act of pondering - prayerfully experiencing these moments and considering each of them as another occasion to comprehend the great mystery that was unfolding - was Mary's way of continually marvelling at the gift she had been given.  The encounter with the shepherds was yet another opportunity for her to relive her yes: the word she had spoken in answer to the angel's invitation, and there were other such moments too: moments at which she pondered, experiences she did not fully comprehend, but moments at which she recalled her yes, and said yes once again.

Mary gave birth to the one we call the Prince of Peace in the midst of a world where there was much conflict and suffering.  Amidst her pondering, she must have wondered how this mystery would unfold.  How could this needy infant cradled in her arms, born in a dark and lowly manger, be the Son of the Most High, the King of Kings who would sit upon the throne of David?  Could it be possible that such a fragile being could be the author of all blessings (cf Num 6:22-27)?

Despite these contradictions, Mary's pondering remained faithful.  She constantly returned to her total acceptance, her yes to love and to serve God.  Her peaceful and trusting spirit bowed freely to the will of God.  As the first disciple, ready to serve the Light of the world, even in the midst of apparent darkness, Mary shows us all how, even in uncertain times, we can anchor our faith and hope in the living God.

Today, we honour Mary, the Holy Mother of God, and we celebrate the World Day of Peace.  Brothers and sisters, when the fullness of time had come, God sent his Son ... in order to redeem those who were subject to the law (Gal 4:4-5).  May God's peace be ours today.  Together, let us ponder and treasure the peace that Christ brings into our lives through the love and compassion of others.  Like Mary, may we be disciples of peace, faithful to Christ's yes offered to us, and to our yes, offered to God.