January 1 – Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God

Advent 2025, Advent Reflections

January 1
Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God

There is no rose of such virtue as is the rose that bare Jesu; alleluia.

For in this rose contained was heaven and earth in little space; res miranda [a thing to be wondered at].

This hymn we pray with again today ponders Mary as a rose who contains heaven and earth in the person of Jesus. A thing to be wondered at, indeed, that the One who was present at creation consented to be carried by her. How can this be? Think of a dewdrop in the folds of a rose—a close examination reveals the whole world refracted within the liquid sphere.

We, too, are called to such virtue: to imitate Mary as a rose catching the dewfall of the Holy Spirit. Jesus is ready to be carried by us as well, to take on life within us as we bear him to people in darkness waiting to see God’s face.

Prayer for Morning
Holy Mary, Mother of God, your faithfulness allowed us to see God’s face in Jesus, your Son. Pray for me, that I may grow in faith and so share him with others in need. Mary, our mother, help me to carry Jesus today.

Ponder Today
What opportunity might I seize today to cultivate virtue?

Prayer for Evening
Holy Mary, Mother of God, Jesus contained himself within the little space of your womb so that God could contain us in his love. Help me create space for your Son to also dwell in me. Mary, our mother, lead me with your prayerfulness.