Christmas Contemplation

"Mary kept all these things, reflecting on them in her heart." Lk 2:18

Contemplation is a gift that allows us, like Mary, to ponder, to sift through, to accept everything that comes to us.  For Mary, who was a very young woman when she first heard that she would be the mother of the Messiah, is was a necessity. Without a commitment to quiet prayer and reflection, without the ability to live with ambiguity, without the willingness to let go of certainty, Mary would not have been able to hear the angel's request of her but because she had a contemplative attitude, Mary became the compassionate mother of all around her.

Think of Mary at the wedding feast of Cana.  Noticing that the young couple being married are running out of wine, she tells Jesus. Full of compassion, Mary is worried that they will be shamed by those who expect to celebrate for several days. Not having enough wine for everyone would have exposed them to harsh ridicule by their guests, and it is only Mary's persistence that wins the day.  When Jesus replies with a question of his own, "Woman, how does your concern affect me?" Mary does not hesitate. She ignores him and tells the waiters, "Do whatever he tells you."  Kindness and understanding trump the rigid rules of hospitality. It is never all right to shame people. What a powerful lesson for all at Christmas.

For many Christmas is not an easy, gentle family time.  For some families excessive drinking will blot out the joy. For others, finding a way to meld multiple families after a divorce will prove impossible, and when faced with the pain of shattered hopes Christmas often descends into loud arguments and further hurt.  Mary's ability to hear Jesus' hesitation and act on behalf of the beleagured couple despite her son's reluctance to help is a reminder to us that a quiet response, rooted in contemplation, is always more effective that a prolonged debate.

Christmas is intended as a time of overwhelming joy for all, but when the joy seems shallow, do not despair.  Remember Mary's willingness to move ahead with silent conviction.  Mary does the right thing. So can we.

Today, ask for the gift of contemplation.