Today’s feast is a prelude to the announcement of salvation. The day on which Mary, while still a child was brought to the temple in Jerusalem to be offered to God. Mary offers herself as a total gift to God by listening. “Blessed are those who hear the word of God and keep it.” How much is enough to give God? A little when we can manage it? 10% or same as what others give? In the Gospel reading, we see a poor widow giving her all. She trusted in the Lord to provide her with what she needed. This is total surrender. This is also our call; to humble ourselves in total surrender, trusting in his word. “Seek first the kingdom of God and everything else will be added unto you.” The Blessed Mother was the epitome of humility; she gave herself in total obedience and surrender. “Be it done to me according to your word.” As we accept our identity as children of God, it is in total surrender that we will experience true freedom and will be pleasing to the Father.

PRAYER: Abba Father, let us with Mary, give our all to you. Amen.