August 20, St. Bernard

Give thanks to the Lord; his love is everlasting.— Psalm 107:1

Mass Readings: Ezekiel 37:1-14 / Matthew 22:34-40

Heading West with Mary 

I had heard about my Uncle Barney — officially, Bernard — all my life. I never met him in person until after high school when I made a trip back East with Mom. In her early 20s, Mom had left her native New Jersey to begin life “out West” with her Washington-state husband. As an adult, I wondered how she had had the courage to pull up roots and live so far from her own mom, siblings and extended family. 

St. Bernard (1090-1153) has part of the answer: “In dangers, in doubts, in difficulties, think of Mary, call upon Mary. Let not her name depart from your lips, never allow it to leave your heart. And that you may more surely obtain the assistance of her prayer, neglect not to walk in her footsteps.” I know Mom has always done just that. 

Prayer: O Mother of the Word Incarnate, despise not my petitions, but in your mercy hear and answer me. Amen.