Our life, hidden in Christ's life

Although the Gospels say little about Jesus' childhood and youth, this must have been a time of special closeness between Mother and Son as they sought each day to do God's will.

St Luke wrote that:

"And Jesus increased in wisdom, in stature, and in favor with God and with people." (Lk 2: 52)

As Jesus grew in wisdom, age and grace, Mary understood better the meaning of her own motherhood. Her quiet life during the "hidden years" at Nazareth is an example to many other mothers and to all who strive to grow in faith, hope and love.

Our lives too are "hid with Christ in God" (Col 3: 3), and Mary shows us how a life which seems humble and ordinary in the eyes of the world can advance God's plan of salvation by radiating the love and peace of Jesus Christ.

_______________________________________________ 

(GENERAL AUDIENCE, Wednesday 29 January 1997)