And Mary said,
‘My soul magnifies the Lord,
and my spirit rejoices in God my Saviour (Luke 1:46)

Mary was deliriously happy about being pregnant, sharing that time with her cousin Elizabeth and was glorifying God for all he had done for her. As humans of the 21st century, we must be careful not to read into the text (eisegesis) i.e. not put our stuff on the text. e.g. social stigma about being young and pregnant or questions about parentage.

The young people in our care may find faith difficult – for a variety of reasons. Mary’s example of faith in God is for today and all time. Mary expresses her joy and gratitude for all of God’s gifts. Those times of elation are precious and to be savoured. One way that young people might emulate Mary is by being open-hearted – open to life and all its experiences. How might I foster such an attitude in myself and the young people in my care?

Have a great week!
Patrick