Mary Vitamin for March 31st
Faithful walk on their knees toward the Basilica of the Fatima Shrine. Image by Getty Images via Daylife
Topic: Our Lady encourages us during Lent
Quote:
Our Lady of Fatima
"God is pleased with your sacrifices, but He does not want you to wear the cords to bed. Keep them on during the day."
Meditation:
For the children of Fatima, zeal knew no bounds. So eager to offer sacrifices for the conversion of sinners they willingly gave up their lunches, went thirsty during the hot day, and even wore ropes secured tightly around their waists. Jacinta, in particular, wore her rope so tight that it cut into her waist.
Fr. DeMarchi remarks in Fatima From the Beginning, "[t]his cord was the only thing in the world to which the children were attached and in the eyes of Jacinta and Francisco the sole object of value."
Available on line at EWTN http://www.ewtn.com/library/MARY/TSFATIMA.HTM
Our Lady knew of the penances of these young children who were all under the age of ten. Did Our Lady say, "Oh no, you've done enough. You're too young and little. You shouldn't tie the rope around your waist."
No, Our Lady did not say that.
She said: "Don't wear the rope at night."
Resolution:
How can I say to myself regarding my very small sacrifices?
No, I've done enough or I'm too busy.
I will listen to Our Lady. I will keep going with my Lenten penances and take a break while I sleep.
Marian Vow:
St. Maximilian Kolbe
"The Immaculata purifies us through penance. Let us strive to deepen the spirit of penance."
Aim Higher! (Marytown Press: 2008), 109.
I give this resolution to the Blessed Virgin Mary.
Thanks be to God for graces received.
Related sites: Castle of the Immaculate & AirMaria
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Blessings+
Deacon John
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