22 Dec
Thu
4th Week of Advent
1 Sam. 1:24-28
(R. Ps.) 1 Sam. 2:1,4-8
Lk. 1:46-56
(Ps Wk IV)
How To Pray With Shalom
Home Page of Shalom
Index of This Month
 

The Magnificat in today's Gospel is primarily a hymn of thanksgiving on the part of Mary for all that God has done for her. In this it echoes the prayer of Hannah in the responsorial psalm following on the first reading. But the Magnificat also shows Mary as the spokeswoman of the poor of her people crying out to God in a situation of need. It is because of this aspect of it that the prayer has become a favourite one for peoples in need of liberation all over the world. The role of Mary in such a situation has also changed. She is no longer considered as a remote statue-like figure but as someone concerned with the human situation especially when that situation is one of oppression.



Lord, through Mary, You have taught us faithfulness and fortitude for all times. Grant us these virtues for our lives too.

DAILY OFFERING
Eternal Father, I offer You everything I do this day; my thoughts, words, joys and sufferings. Grant that, vivified by the Holy Spirit and united to the Sacred Heart of Jesus and the Immaculate Heart of Mary, my life this day may be of service to You and to others. I also pray that all those preparing for marriage discover in Sacrament the source of Christ's grace for living a fithful and fruitful love. Amen.

PRAYING WITH THE CHURCH
INTENTION
That the dignity of men and women according to the creator's plan may be ever more deeply understood.
Elaboration

- END -