The scripture readings for today's liturgies focus our attention on Mary''s strongest characteristic. She stands as a model of genuine love. She demonstrates for us in so many different moments that true love reveals itself in reaching out to care for others. Her love is evident in her journey to be with Elizabeth, her cousin. Likewise she shows her care for her neighbors when there was the embarrassment of no more wine at their wedding celebration. When we consider Mary standing at the foot of the cross that shouldered her dying son, we are looking at the woman of love. Her concern was always for others.
Throughout the gospels we see Mary only as a woman who gives of herself for others. Even at a time when most would have easily have allowed themselves to be in need of comfort and support, Mary accepts the call to take care of her son's disciples after his death.
St. Paul's words give us the best picture of an abstract reality: "Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things, endures all things." Mary is this description of love. And it is the very picture of anyone caring for another especially a loved one who has to walk the journey of Alzheimer's disease; the walk of parents who are given a child born with sever disabilities; a spouse who struggles with an addiction that incapacitates a partner; or a neighbor who extends a helping hand to the homeless or the helpless. Mary endured so many difficult moments and, in so doing, she revealed the "thoughts of many hearts" who teach us true love.
