What appears to be a dismissive comment of Jesus to His mother is actually a great compliment. Because she had modelled a life of faith, prayer and action since His birth, Mary lived the Word of God. So, Jesus was, in fact, upholding her example and praising her, along with all who choose to follow Him.
To hear God’s Word and put it into practice requires attentive listening to details and having an inner awareness, a silent receptivity that is not overwhelmed by the constant noise of the world. This interior recollection, noticing and contemplating what is of God in the everyday moments of our lives, will manifest wisdom.
Silence does not indicate an emptiness of spirit but rather an interior richness. It helps us to draw closer to people as it enables more accurate perception and understanding of their perspective and problems. Mary was relatively silent in all the big moments. But, having kept all things in her heart, she was able to act with the love and sincerity that gives life to all, including Jesus.
+ Hail Mary! Please help us conceive by the power of the Holy Spirt, actions that magnify the presence of Jesus in the world when hearing the Word of God and putting its wisdom into practice.
by Margaret O’Shea