Today is May 24, and Pentecost is seven days away.

I find it fascinating that Our Blessed Mother has been actively involved in human history. She’s been there at those “crossroads of history” when things suddenly changed for the better. Perhaps the biggest moment was March 25 in the year zero, when the Annunciation happened.

The Archangel Gabriel announced that she had been chosen to be the Mother of God. Mary was free to say yes or no. She said “yes” without any reservation, and at that very moment “the Word became flesh and dwelt amongst us.” And oh, the calendar in use all over the world changed from B.C. – before Christ – to A.D. – Anno Domini, the Year of the Lord.

Nine months later the Savior and Creator of the world was born in Bethlehem, and Mary was there. Thirty-three years later, Jesus died on the Cross and saved the world and Mary was there, at the foot of the Cross. Fifty days later the Holy Spirit set the apostles on fire on Pentecost Sunday, 3,000 were baptized, and the Church was born. And Mary was there.

Remember, O most gracious Virgin Mary, that never was it known that anyone who fled to thy protection, implored thy help, or sought thine intercession was left unaided. Inspired by this confidence, I fly unto thee, O Virgin of virgins, my mother; to thee do I come, before thee I stand, sinful and sorrowful. O Mother of the Word Incarnate, despise not my petitions, but in thy mercy hear and answer me. Amen.

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