The month of June is dedicated to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. Is it odd that we also celebrate Mary’s Immaculate Heart one day during this month?
Absolutely not.
It is because of Mary’s pure heart and unwavering obedience to God that she became Jesus’ mother and, thus, a mother to all of us. She shared her love and goodness with Jesus, and He in turn readied her heart for all she was about to endure.
Along with the typical joys and difficulties that motherhood brings, Mary experienced so much more. Imagine the fear, excitement and anticipation of being told by an angel that you would bear God’s son. Then she was blessed with the immense joy of nurturing Jesus, followed by the incredible grief of witnessing His death on a cross. Finally, as she was assumed into heaven, we imagine Mary’s heart bursting with happiness as she is reunited with Jesus and prepares to live with God throughout eternity.
All of the wonderful, tearful and glorious moments that Mary experienced are encapsulated in her Immaculate Heart. We cannot see Mary, but we can envision her gentle faith guiding her through every moment. Her faith in God assured her that she would be united with Him again.
That is why we celebrate the Immaculate Heart of Mary every June 13, a day after we mark the solemnity of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus.
We know from Luke’s Gospel that “Mary kept all these things, reflecting on them in her heart.” (Luke 2:19) We have the opportunity to open our hearts and ask for Mary’s intercession. May we find ways to imitate her pure and unfaltering love as we anticipate our heavenly reward.
