Memorial of Our Lady of the Rosary
The readings today show Mary at the most important beginnings since humans were created. In the Gospel, we see Mary at the Annunciation, when the Archangel Gabriel announced to her that she would be the mother of Jesus. In the first reading, we see Mary at the descent of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost. These mark two beginnings: 1) the Incarnation, when humanity and divinity first meet in the person of Jesus Christ, and 2) the birth of the Church, which brings humanity into life in Christ.
While Mary does not initiate the work of God (that is a divine prerogative alone), Mary is nonetheless present at such important beginnings. For example, the most important beginning in anyone’s life is when they come to know Jesus. How many people in the world have come to know Jesus through Mary? Think of all the Marian apparitions throughout history. These are examples of Mary calling people to repent and believe in Jesus. Think of all the saints she inspired, saints who dedicated their lives to proclaiming Jesus in word and deed. She was even present for Jesus’ first miracle at the wedding at Cana. These are examples we know about, but there are surely countless more that we don’t know about.
One day, you will likely meet Mary (in this life or the next), and you will be joyfully surprised to see how present she was at your important beginnings. You might even say in wonder, “I didn’t realize that you were walking with me to Jesus since the beginning.” How could it be otherwise? This is what she has always done.