Monday, May 25, 2026

 Memorial of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of the Church

(Genesis 3:9-15.20; John 19:25-34)

Today’s readings present two paths for life’s journey.  Like in Robert Frost’s poem “The Road Not Taken,” the journeyer must choose one of them to follow.  The first is set by Eve.  She is enticed by the serpent’s promise that eating the fruit of the Tree of Knowledge of Good and Evil will bring handsome benefits.  The second path is blazed by Mary, the mother of Jesus.  She stays close to her son not only to support him but also to receive his guidance.

Eve’s path is superficially fair and well-trodden.  However, it led to her downfall and, as “mother of all the living,” to our propensity toward evil.  Taking it, we would be ruined.  Mary’s path has had fewer takers and, consequently, is less worn.  Still, it is fairer because it brings us righteousness leading to eternal life.

Mary, as Mother of the Church, now gives us guidance and support.  She has shown us how to follow her son and prays that we might do so.

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