It is 21st November 2016. We celebrate the memorial of the Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary. The Protoevangelium of James tells us that Anne and Joachim offered Mary to God in the Temple when she was three years old, fulfilling a promise made to God when Anne was still childless. Mary as a child was presented by her parents to the Lord in the Temple. From the very beginning of her life, Mary, ever Virgin dedicated her entire life to God and was obedient God’s will and plan. Mary’s life was consecrated to God from her earliest years. St. John Damascene beautiful presents saying, “She was planted in the House of God, nourished by the Holy Spirit and kept her body and soul spotless to receive God in her bosom. He who is all-holy rests among the holy.” The readings are from Zechariah 2:14-17; and the Gospel from Matthew 12:46-50. In the first reading, the Lord wishes to dwell among God’s people and to make them God’s own possession. We sing in the responsorial Psalm, the Magnificat what Mary said, “My soul glorifies the Lord, my spirit rejoices in God, my Saviour. The Almighty works marvels for me. Holy is his name! He looks on his servant in her nothingness; henceforth all ages will call me blessed. The Almighty works marvels for me. Holy his name!” “Behold the handmaid of the Lord. Let it be done to me according to your word.” (LK 1:38) In today’s gospel, Jesus praised Mary to be the model of one who does the Word of God. Mary is the fitting model for all who struggle to hear and live the Word of God. Mother Mary cooperated with God by doing the will of God and therefore she qualifies His real family. Let us consecrate our lives to the Lord on a daily basis so as to know the will of God. May you have a good day.