Monday, Fourth Week of Advent
Theme: The Blessed Virgin Mary
Symbol: White Lilly
Prayer of Ven. Bruno Lanteri
Almighty and Eternal God, I (name), although most unworthy, but encouraged by your compassion and infinite mercy, and by the desire of serving you, offer before the Most Holy Virgin Mary and all the Court of Heaven, to your Divine Majesty, this day, and all my thoughts, words and actions in it. I humbly beg of your infinite goodness and mercy, by the Blood of Jesus Christ, that you choose to accept this offering in the odor of sweetness, and that as you have given me the grace to desire and to make this offering, so also you grant me the grace to fulfill it. Amen.
O Virgin immaculately conceived, put into my heart those things of your Son most pleasing to him. Amen.
Scripture: Luke 1: 46-49
And Mary said: My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord and my spirit rejoices in God my Saviour; because he has looked upon the humiliation of his servant. Yes, from now onwards all generations will call me blessed, for the Almighty has done great things for me.
Reflection: Mary, the New Eve, has every reason to rejoice. God has accomplished much in her. Cooperation with the abundant grace of God brings about fulfilment and great joy. When God uplifts you, you are uplifted indeed. The Father has raised Mary up, for she acknowledged that all she has comes from him. She was able to put herself at God’s service, especially in her glorious assent to the divine indwelling that brought about the Incarnation. Every good mother desires the best for her children. All generations must call her blessed. It is her wish to share her blessedness with all her children during this season and beyond.