christ within
"Thereupon Mary set out, proceeding in haste into the hill country to a town of Judah, where she entered Zechariah's house and greeted Elizabeth." —Luke 1:39-40
When we think of Our Lady of Guadalupe, we think of her miraculous image on the tilma, the miracle of the roses, the great basilica, and especially the millions of conversions. The cause of all these wondrous works is symbolized by the black sash at the center of the image of Our Lady of Guadalupe. This sash is a sign that Mary was pregnant with Jesus. Jesus, Who was in Mary, has done and continues to do countless miracles through Our Lady of Guadalupe. Jesus through Mary continues to convert millions to new life in Him.
On this great feast day, let us accept God's grace to be like Our Lady of Guadalupe. Let us be filled with Jesus. Let us be like Mary and visit all the Elizabeths and Johns in our lives (Lk 1:39ff). Christ in us is our Hope of glory (Col 1:27). "There is One greater in you than there is in the world" (1 Jn 4:4). As we are conscious of Jesus living within us (see 2 Cor 13:5), Jesus will do miracles through us and give salvation to countless thousands.
Our Lady of Guadalupe, pray for us to be like you. May we let Jesus within us transform the world around us. We are servants of the Lord; let it be done to us according to His word (Lk 1:38).
Prayer: Jesus, during Advent prepare us to be full of Life this Christmas, for You are the Way, the Truth, and the Life (Jn 14:6).
Promise: "He establishes in her home the barren wife as the joyful mother of children." —Ps 113:9
Praise: Our Lady of Guadalupe left her image on the cloak of a Mexican Indian, and it is still miraculously intact today.
Nihil Obstat: Reverend Edward J. Gratsch, July 15, 2000
Imprimatur: †Most Reverend Carl K. Moeddel, Vicar General and Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, July 17, 2000