Reflect
Full disclosure: I am kind of obsessed with sound and music. So when I recently reread the story of St. Juan Diego and his encounter with Mary in Mexico in 1531, my ears perked up—literally—when I discovered that he heard music when she appeared. And not just any music, but something I’ve read described as a celestial choir accompanied by beautiful birdsong. It was right after hearing the music that he heard Our Lady’s voice, gently calling out to him in his native language of Nahuatl with the diminutive of his name, Juantzin (“Johnny”), like a mother to her child. I like to think that’s how Mary would approach any of us if we were so blessed to hear her celestial musical accompaniment.
Pray
Mother Mary,
I long to hear the music of your voice.
You graciously appeared to St. Juan Diego now nearly 500 years ago,
And your message is still ringing and resonating
among the hearts and minds of countless people of faith.
I pray that I better listen for your quiet, loving voice
amid the loudness of the chaotic world around us.
I pray to follow, even in some small way, the example of St. Juan Diego:
humble, open-hearted, and ready to carry your sacred message to the world.
Act
Do you have a favorite song or composer? Take a moment to listen to a cherished piece of music and consider if there is some subtle spiritual message that comes across. You might consider a journal entry after listening, something you can return to later to remind yourself of God’s gift and presence in music.
