By Eedara Vamshi csc.
Readings: 1 Sam 1:24-28; Lk 1: 46-56
In the first reading, we see Hanna giving praise to God for the marvellous deeds God had done in her life. Hannah offers her child to God as she vowed in the presence of God. She brings her child in the presence of God and lives in the temple. She speaks to priest Eli, that as long as he lived, he will serve in the presence of God. When they make a promise to God according to a Jewish custom, it was only for fifty years, but she offers Samuel lifelong in the service of God to serve his people.
In the gospel reading, we see the Magnificat where Mary proclaims the goodness and greatness of God. Despite the unusual circumstances of her call to be the mother of Jesus, Mary rejoices and proclaims that God has looked upon her with great favour. Mary’s immediate and heartfelt response to God’s call makes it clear that Mary had a deep, and personal relationship with God. Mother Mary was sometimes confused by her call, yet she trusted God who called her. She believed that God would guide and support her. When she was young, God called her and she had deep faith and trust in God.
Mother Mary gives total credit to God for everything, even as all generations would call her blessed. And finally, Mother Mary is aware that it is all because of God’s inherent nature of being faithful to his promises. Like Mother Mary, we also can experience the gift of a personal and intimate relationship with God by listening to His word and by doing His will in our daily life.