That others may be esteemed more than I, Jesus, grant me the grace to desire it. That, in the opinion of the world, others may increase and I may decrease, Jesus, grant me the grace to desire it. That others may be chosen and I set aside, Jesus, grant me the grace to desire it. That others may be preferred to me in everything, Jesus, grant me the grace to desire it. That others may become holier than I, provided that I become as holy as I should, Jesus, grant me the grace to desire it.
-Cardinal Raphael Merry Del Val
For Reflection:
Am I willing to pray this prayer? Why or why not?
Full of Grace: Women and the Abundant Life Johnnette Benkovic Pb 238 pgs Click Here For More Information
Chapter One Page 20 The Special Call and Gift of Woman The Blessed Mother: The Perfect Model of Womanhood
Mary renounced herself out of concern for the Child she carried, as mothers do, so that the life within her might germinate and come to full term. During her period of confinement, Mary made herself completely available to the Child developing within her, nurturing the tender life until it was time for Him to be born.