We are celebrating on May 31st the Feast of the Visitation of our Lady to her cousin Elizabeth. 

I thought to meditate more purposedly about this Feast and why is it so important for us, faithful Catholics. 

The main idea here (as I understand it) is that Mary goes to her cousin to help her.  She went to be of service, she went to serve. 

Something important to notice in the gospel readings is that she hurried.  She felt that urge to move quickly to offer her help. 

That action, that desire, makes me reflect on my own willingness to help, am I eager to help those around me? 

Mary faced many obstacles before reaching Elizabeth.  “Mary set out and traveled to the hill country in haste to a town of Judah”, Lk 1:39-56.  She climbed for a long time and yet the difficult journey did not slow her down.  She was determined. 

What about me/us?  Am I/Are we willing to go over obstacles to help my brother or siter in need? 

We can certainly say that usually all our human complications, obstacles (time, disposition, desires, issues, comfort, pride) prevent us from helping others. 

So, the question to ask myself/ourselves is then:  How can I go over those obstacles in my life to better serve my family, my colleagues, my brothers, my sisters, etc.? 

Mary served with her life.  She complicated her life to serve.  As Jesus came to serve, Mary also served. 

We are called to be apostles, to live a life of vocation and mission. 

In this Feast of the Visitation, let us be inspired by our lady’s example of self-donation and generosity to serve with an open heart those in need (materially or spiritually).  Let us get rid of those many obstacles preventing us from being of service.  Let us stop and be attentive to the needs of others.  Let us love our neighbor the way they need to be loved.  

Mother of Mercy, Pray for us. 

Comfort of the afflicted, Pray for us. 

signed, a faithful Catholic