Today’s gospel is Mary’s hymn of praise (Magnificat) to God, “My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord, my spirit rejoices in God my savior”. Mary felt so blessed because despite her status in life, God chose her to bring about His salvation to man. God’s plan of forgiveness and salvation to mankind was realized through Mary.

Mary’s response to God’s salvific plan brings hope to the hopeless, joy to those in misery and mercy to the marginalized. Let us be frank. In this chaotic and materialistic world, wealth and power rule. In God’s kingdom, it is different! The first is the last, the humble is exalted. This was clearly manifested when Christ washed his apostles’ feet; the master is the servant. Christ is present for he dwells in us. We are the temples of his Holy Spirit. Let us pray for the grace to be like Mary in sharing God’s plan of salvation and of hope by responding positively to God’s call. As Mother Theresa of Calcutta said, “We cannot all do great things, but we can do small things with great love.” No act is too small when it is done out of love. Mary’s “yes” to be the mother of Christ and our little acts of love and mercy towards others will lead to the fulfillment of God’s plan. We will continually struggle, face difficult challenges, yet with the help of God, we will overcome. We will triumph!