October is one of two months in the year dedicated to honoring Mary, the mother of Jesus. The Catechism of the Catholic Church states “by her complete adherence to the Father’s will, to his Son’s redemptive work, and to every prompting of the Holy Spirit, the Virgin Mary is the Church’s model of faith and charity” (967).
She was so blessed by the grace of the Holy Spirit, that when she was visited by the angel Gabriel, she simply asked how it could happen that she would conceive a child without knowing a man. This was followed by her complete trust in God (Lk 1:26-38).
Imagine what our lives would be like if we could learn to trust God the way Mary did. If we, too, could simply say “May it be done to me according to your word” (Lk 1:38). How would our lives be different?
Trust is a result of a sense of security. When we feel secure and safe in our relationships, we can relax and trust others. For some people, this is difficult, due to temperament, upbringing, or events that happened in life. We may have the mistaken idea that developing a sense of trust requires that every detail is securely in place, with no mishaps or tribulations. That is categorically untrue.
No one has an unscathed life experience, even someone who appears to have reached perfection. That is simply not the human experience. We all face difficulties and trials, and it is our trust in God that determines our response to the events that happen to us. If we, like Mary, can approach the challenges we face with faith in God’s goodness, asking for his grace amid our struggles, we could have a different outcome, one marked by hope and a future we might not have envisioned.
Mary is a model for us to follow, thereby allowing the grace of the Holy Spirit to enter our experiences, including those that cause us to question God’s presence. If we do so, we will have all we need to address the fears that arise in situations that confound us.
After the angel’s visit, Mary hastened to see her cousin, Elizabeth. There, she was comforted and encouraged. If we respond to events that bring us doubt with trust rather than terror, God’s grace will fill us and help us make lifegiving decisions.
A principal document of Vatican II by Pope Paul VI, “Lumen Gentium,” the Dogmatic Constitution on the Church, states “in a wholly singular way (Mary) cooperated by her obedience, faith, hope and burning charity in the work of the Savior in restoring supernatural life to souls” (61).
In trying moments, we often cannot see over the horizon, and we may be tempted to make a hasty decision that will forever change our lives. Asking for Mary’s strength, as well as her consolation and comfort, can help us remain calm and trust in God’s goodness and wisdom.
October is also Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month. If a woman finds she is pregnant and unmarried, or has an unwanted pregnancy, the culture will tell her to abort her baby. In fact, it will tell her it is her body, her choice. If she goes through with an abortion, she has no idea the pain she will bring upon herself for the remainder of her life, because this is a decision that cannot be undone.
If you know someone who is experiencing an unwanted pregnancy, encourage her to reach out to one of the many groups that support women who fear they must walk this path alone. Assure her there are people who will help her during this challenging time and afterward, thereby giving life to her unborn baby and herself.
Soucheray is a licensed marriage and family therapist emeritus and a member of St. Ambrose in Woodbury. Learn more at her website ifhwb.com.
ACTION PLAN
- Take time this month to pray a rosary and think of Mary’s example of courage and trust in God. Thank her for her willingness to give birth to Jesus, even though she was frightened and unsure.
- If you know someone who is pregnant and considering abortion, encourage her to reach out to a pregnancy center for help. Abortion is not the only answer.
Note: If you, or someone you know, is suffering from the after-effects of abortion, consider reaching out to Rachel’s Vineyard and participating in a healing weekend. More information can be found at rachelsvineyard.org.
