In today's readings we catch a glimpse of the joys and sorrows Mary experienced in her heart, in fulfilling her mission of being the mother of God. When she realized her call, and the great things God had done for her, Mary sang that lovely song of praise and thanksgiving 'My soul glorifies the Lord and my spirit rejoices in God my Saviour"

Mary experiences the joys of motherhood as she watches her son grow up. Now, as Jesus reaches the age of twelve Mary brings Him to Jerusalem for the feast of the Passover, another important event in His life. As they return she and Joseph experience the anxiety of parents who lose their son in the crowds. When they eventually find Him with the doctors listening to them and asking them questions they are filled with awe. When He tells them that He must be about His "Father's business" they do not understand and yet Mary ponders these words in her heart. No doubt it was this pondering on the words of God that helped Mary to discover step by step the meaning of Jesus' life and mission and that enabled her to stay by her son, supporting Him as a loving mother, even to His death on the cross.