The scriptures record the extraordinary announcement to Mary of her becoming the mother of Christ. Excitement was in the voice of the angel Gabriel and her cousin Elizabeth. Never before had there been and never again will there be such salutations to a woman. So often we think of the needs of children, and rightfully so given their dependence. And yet we must not lose sight of the felt needs of mothers. They too have needs: the needs of encouragement, rest, honor and respect, appreciation, affirmation, celebration and understanding motherly purpose and mission. Mary left us:
A Legacy Of A Pious Mother. Mary was holy, pious, pure and well versed in the Scriptures. She was the model for mothers today, who dress modestly, speak appropriately, respect their husbands, sacrifice for and serve their families, and unselfishly love and serve Christ. Those mothers run to Christ, serving with a calm and peaceful spirit, filled with the Spirit, not the spirit of the world.
A Legacy Of A Proud Mother. Mary was present at Jesus’ scourging and crucifixion, witnessing His darkest times as a falsely accused and illegally sentenced victim of the Pharisees. She was justly proud of His service and sacrifice for all, even those who persecuted Him. Mothers should follow her example of appropriately celebrating their children, standing with them when the world unjustly stands against them.
A Legacy Of A Praying Mother. Mary was not only the mother of Jesus, but became a spiritual mother in the Church, supporting with her prayers, presence and devotion. Not every woman can be a biological mother, but every woman can be a spiritual mother to other children, leaving a holy legacy.