Mary, the Joy of My Vocation as a Religious in My Limitedness and Vulnerability

Introduction

I am deeply honoured to be invited by the liturgy committee to share my reflection on "Mary, the Joy of My Vocation as a Religious in My Limitedness and Vulnerability." As members of a Marian congregation, we hold a profound devotion to Mary, seeking to emulate her "yes" to God in our daily lives.

Mother church dedicates the month of October to the Most Holy Rosary of the Blessed Virgin Mary, reminding us of her pivotal role in salvation history. The Catholic Church teaches that Mary was chosen by God to be the mother of Jesus and was conceived without sin to prepare her for this divine mission. Mary is a symbol of God's love and a guide and inspiration in our spiritual and human relationships.

In this reflection, I will share the following insights:

A. The Joy of Mary

Mary's joy is rooted in her unique relationship with God. Her profound moments of joy include:

• The Annunciation, where she gave her fiat to God.
• The Visitation, where her joy was shared with Elizabeth.
• The Birth of Jesus, the fulfilment of God's promise.
• The Resurrection affirms hope for all believers.
• Her Coronation as Queen of Heaven and Earth is a prelude to our glorification in Christ.

Mary is truly the Cause of Our Joy because she precedes us on the path of discipleship, showing us that God works through our humility and trust. St. Augustine beautifully expressed this truth: "To fall in love with God is the greatest romance, to seek Him the greatest adventure, to find Him the greatest human achievement."

For us as religious brothers, the joy of our vocation is found in serving God and humanity. The Catechism of the Catholic Church reminds us that vocation is our divine calling and destiny. Through our "yes" to God, we share in the joy of Mary and find fulfilment in our mission.

B. The Magnificat: A Song of Joy and Trust

Mary's Magnificat (Luke 1:46-56) is a profound hymn of praise and joy:
"My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord; my spirit rejoices in God, my Savior." Her song celebrates God's mercy, justice, and fidelity to His promises. Pope Francis reflects on this in Evangelii Gaudium: "Mary's song is a testimony of how God works in the lives of the humble and poor."

Mary's joy was contagious—even Elizabeth's unborn child, John, leapt for joy at Mary's greeting. Her Assumption into heaven is a sign of hope, affirming the Resurrection promised to all believers (Lumen Gentium, 68). Like Mary, we are called to rejoice always (Philippians 4:4) and share her joy as members of the Body of Christ (1 Corinthians 12:26).

C. My Vocation, My Inspiration

Mary's yes at the Annunciation (Luke 1:38) inspires us to embrace our own vocational call with humility and trust. Her willingness to accept God's will despite uncertainty resonates with our journey as religious brothers. Pope Benedict XVI reflected: "Mary teaches us to trust in God, even in the face of the unknown." Like Mary, we are called to respond to God's invitation with a generous heart, knowing that His plans for us are always for our good (Jeremiah 29:11).

D. My Vulnerability as a Brother

Vulnerability is not a sign of weakness but an opportunity for God's grace to shine through us. St. Paul reminds us in 2 Corinthians 12:10: "When I am weak, then I am strong." Accepting our limitations allows us to connect deeply with others and embrace our true selves. Pope Francis often speaks of vulnerability as an openness to God's mercy. He said, "Only a heart that knows how to be vulnerable can be tender and compassionate."

E. Embracing Limitedness as a Religious Brother

Our limitations remind us of our need for God and community. Moses' father-in-law wisely advised him: "What you are doing is not good. You will surely wear yourself out… You cannot do it alone" (Exodus 18:17-18). God intentionally creates us with limitations so that we rely on Him and on one another. Embracing this truth fosters humility and strengthens our relationships.

F. Embracing Vulnerability as a Religious Brother

Embracing vulnerability is a courageous act of faith. It allows us to experience God's strength, working through our weaknesses. By doing so, we grow in empathy, self-awareness, and emotional intelligence, equipping us to serve others with compassion. St. Thérèse of Lisieux wisely observed: "Jesus does not demand great actions from us but simply surrender and gratitude."

G. Conclusion

Following Mary's example, we are reminded that our vocation is not about perfection but about surrendering our limitations and vulnerabilities to God's transformative love. Mary's joy inspires us to trust in God's plan, while her humility teaches us to rely on His grace. Let us support one another in embracing our vulnerabilities, finding joy in our vocation, and trusting in God's love.

Reflection Questions

1. How do I embrace the limitations and vulnerabilities of my vocation?
2. How can I surrender my fears and doubts to God's plan like Mary?
3. How can I embody humility and joy in my daily life as Mary did?
4. How can I trust God's grace to work through my vulnerabilities?
5. In what ways can I find joy in serving others despite my weaknesses?
6. How can I support others who struggle with their own limitations and vulnerabilities?

May Mary, the Cause of Our Joy, intercede for us and inspire us to live our vocation with faith, hope, and love.

I wish you all a fruitful recollection.

By Bro. Prince Kob (FIC, Ghana province)