Mary “kept all these things in her heart” (Luke 2:51).
As we celebrate today the Memorial of the Immaculate Heart of the Blessed Virgin Mary, we are invited to deeper intimacy with Our Lady. And when we grow in relationship with her, be confident that Mary’s Immaculate Heart always leads us to deeper union with the Sacred Heart of Jesus.
Mary remembered, pondered, studied, and stored the life of Jesus in her heart. She is the exemplar of contemplation and she wants to teach us how to pray. Amidst the chaos and noise that comes today, she desires to assist us in developing quiet and holy silence. Even if it is just for a few minutes!
Jesus was formed in Mary’s womb, under the generous love of her heart. This maternal love is our refuge, too. Mary invites us close to ponder with her the life and teachings of Christ. She wants us to see Christ with her maternal perspective. But where do we start?
The Rosary is a comprehensive walk with Mary through the life of Christ. The Joyful, Luminous, Sorrowful, and Glorious Mysteries have been a deep well of grace for Christians for centuries. However, in all honesty, I have prayed countless distracted rosaries without any pondering of the Mysteries. Praying a separate Holy Hour with just one mystery at time has helped me tremendously.
Today’s Gospel of the Finding of the Child Jesus in the Temple, the Fifth Joyful Mystery, might be a great passage to start with today. When pondering these things in our hearts with Mary, we can ask for her intercession to help us with distractions in prayer. When distractions come, simply pray, “Mary, help me to keep all these things in my heart."
And as you work your way through the passages in the Gospels of the Mysteries of the Rosary, you will receive a new wellspring of grace. This will allow memories of prayer to flood your heart as your rosary passes through your fingers. And as you contemplate the life of Jesus with Mary, she will help you to keep all these things in your heart.
Walk through this simple step-by-step guide on how to pray the Rosary.
Rose Coleman is an elementary school teacher with a heart for pilgrimage. She traveled the globe on a ship during college and spent some years in the convent as a religious sister. She was a contributing author to All She Had, Blessed Conversations: Rooted, and our children’s devotional prayer book called Rise Up. Find out more about her here.
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