In the Mariology class I am taking, we are currently focusing on apparitions; more specifically, Mary’s apparition as Our Lady of Guadalupe. The thing that I took to heart most during our class discussion is Our Lady’s comforting words to her little servant. Juan tried to avoid Mary in his haste to get a priest for his dying uncle. Our Lady, however, intercepts him on the way and delivers these tender loving words;

“Listen and let it penetrate your heart…do not be troubled or weighed down with grief. Do not fear any illness or vexation, anxiety or pain.  Am I not here who am your Mother? Are you not under my shadow and protection? Am I not your fountain of life? Are you not in the folds of my mantle? In the crossing of my arms? Is there anything else you need?”

This message was initially for Juan, however, are we not Mary’s servants, her little children as well? She reminds us of her love and security and wants us to place our worries in her protecting arms. Mary is always waiting for her children to seek their mother.