Reversal of Priorities

Gospel: Luke 1: 39-56

The kingdom of God is in every way an exact reversal of the kingdoms of this world.  In this world the proud, rich, and powerful prevail, exploiting the resources of the world and other people for their own gain.  It is a world where men predominate and women are placed in roles of inferiority.  The means the world uses for its ends are violence and lies.  

However, in God's kingdom the priority is always for the needs of the poor and vulnerable.  Here, the resources of the world are shared so that all may benefit.  Here, women and the faith they exhibit are the shining beacons in the midst of men who continually fall short.  The Gospels make these points clear: Jesus gave priority to the needs of the poor and vulnerable; the women of the Gospels exhibit faith far superior to those of men.  

Today's feast is a recognition of that reality.  Mary's faith is greater than that of Abraham.  Her vulnerability and poverty were given priority, and she found protection in others God inspired to help her in her earthly journey and beyond.  It is the task of the Christian to live the values of the kingdom of God - to give priority to the poor and vulnerable, to emulate the faith of the women of the Gospels - so that we might follow Mary in her path to God's kingdom.