The Immaculata: Preparing for the Lord

We've seen over the last couple of days some reasons why the Immaculate Conception is so important, and why she is an explicit part of our mission as Fr. Kolbe Missionaries of the Immaculata (and members of the Militia of the Immaculata). Divine truths ought to effect our daily lives, like a tiny seed that grows until it bears much fruit. So, let's switch gears a little bit, and take a more practical approach. In this time of Advent we can reflect on how the Immaculata can help us to prepare for the coming of the Lord.

In a profound way the Immaculata's entire childhood was an advent. As a a young Jewish girl, she waited with great expectation the coming of the Messiah. Her entire life, spirituality, and focus was in worshipping the One True God and in waiting for the coming of His anointed One. How the hearts of the Jewish must have ached for the coming of the Savior! 

Aching turned to delight when the Angel Gabriel came to the young woman of Nazareth, and a more profound Advent began. This might be considered the first Chrisitan Advent, because it was the first time in history that the Messiah was awaited as a person, with His own name, and with a Divine Nature. Jesus was safely growing within the Immaculata, and yet she must have yearned to see His face, to touch Him, to hold Him. As only a mother would know, she already loved little unborn Jesus, but this love only intensified the longing. 

So it is that we, children of this same Mother, ought to experience Advent: with longing to see Him in a brand new way. Sure, we know His name, His love, and all sorts of facts about Him, but Advent is about longing to encounter Him, personally and daily. It is a noble thing, then, to resist some of the Holiday pleasures until Christmas... mounting in us the longing for the day and attaching directly the joy with the reason. One might consider following in Our Lady's footsteps, and make a "Visitation" to someone who needs a little extra attention and love. One might reconcile themselves with others, especially where family ties have been broken over misunderstanding (here, recall Joseph and Mary's little dilemma). Above all, pray. Pray for an open heart to gaze on Christ at Christmas - our little Savior for whom we've been waiting!

------------------------------------------------------------------------

"O Mary conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to you, and for those who do not have recourse to you, especially the enemies of holy Mother Church and those recommended unto you!"