Twenty-fifth Day. the Blessed Virgin the Model of Charity
It is truly Mary, who, after her divine Son, has given us the most touching example of charity. Everywhere she appears full of grace, of meekness, consideration, goodness, mildness, and tenderness. Her charity was as boundless as her love of God. But now that she enjoys the clear vision of her Beloved, how great must be the increase of her love towards Him, and consequently of her charity towards mankind. All her person, her looks, her actions, her movements, her whole life breathe nothing but charity. In going to visit her cousin Elizabeth, the charity of Mary was manifested. This charity caused her to leave her home to undertake a long and painful journey under circumstances that unfitted her for fatigue. The same virtue shone forth at the marriage of Cana, when she saved the bride and bridegroom the mortification of telling their guests that the wine had given out. Her heart was one with her divine Son, Who loved His enemies so much that He gave Himself up for their salvation. Alas, how we shrink from forgiving the slightest offence that is offered to us! O my Mother, why am I not inflamed by at least a spark of the love of God! Then I would not find it so hard to forgive all who have offended me.
Prayer.
With deep humility do we exclaim, Pray for us, O holy Mother of God! Thou art the Mother of Him Who is Our Redeemer and Our God, but thou art also the Mother of sinners, for whom thy divine Son shed His blood. Intercede for us with Jesus, and beg for grace that we may love Him with all our heart and all our strength. Amen.