When Jesus saw his mother and the disciple there whom he loved, he said to his mother, “Woman, behold, your son.” Then he said to the disciple, “Behold, your mother.” – John 19: 26-27

From the consequences of Eve’s disobedience in Genesis, to Mary’s example of faithfulness in the Gospel, today’s readings establish the foundational role of women in the unfolding of humanity’s destiny—their role in salvation history. I can almost hear the women in today’s readings privately saying, “My God, it is hard being strong all the time.” Many of us can relate to that statement, especially during times of despair, grief, loss, or isolation.

Today is the memorial of Blessed Mary, Mother of the Church. When Jesus entrusted his mother to his disciple, saying, "Behold, your mother," and entrusted his disciple to his mother, saying, "Woman, behold your son," he invited all believers into a new family. A family knit together by love, compassion, networks of care, support, and mutual responsibility. A family that fosters both personal recovery as well as communal healing. A family that is willing to be lifted up for greater purpose, God's purpose. A family entrusted to Mary. We, as members of this family, are called to care for Mary's legacy. She exemplifies what it means to abide in love and endure faithfully, calmly, powerfully, and unapologetically from a place of vulnerability and suffering.

The love and example of Blessed Mother Mary extend beyond boundaries, serving as a reminder of the church's mission of compassion. Her life reminds us that the church is made of flesh and spirit, not just stone walls, heavy doors, rituals, and grand sanctuaries. Mary’s life reminds us that the church should be about nurturing meaningful relationships and answering God’s call to embody the nature of Christ. The church should not be a collection of individuals executing spiritual self-help plans with hopes of a heaven upgrade later. The church must be known by the fruits of her existence. We must be known by the fruits of our existence.

Mary's faithfulness shows us that good fruit only grows from a surrendered life, and not from the number of scripture verses we can quote, nor by our titles or ranks, nor by how well a presider can preach, or our public displays of faith, or how loudly and passionately we can pray. We might be able to sing hymns, preach, advise, lead worship, serve in every church committee, and participate in every religious activity, but who are we when no one is watching? True faith challenges us to forgive, act despite doubt, and care for others beyond our immediate circles, transforming isolation into community and belonging. God needs more people to carry the nature of Christ. So today, let us say "Yes" as Mary did. Let us ask God to prune us, break us, shape us, redefine us, and change us, just as Mary was. All for the greater glory of God.

Thank you, Mama Mary, for the fruit you bore on our behalf.

Blessed Mary, Mother of the Church, pray for us. Amen.