380 thoughts turned to Elizabeth. She got up and went forth, into the world of life and movement. Even though the astonishing message of the angel had caused a seismic shift in her plans, the young Mary did not remain paralyzed, for within her was Jesus, the power of resurrection and new life. Within herself, Mary already bore the Lamb that was slain and yet lives. She arises and sets out, for she is certain that God’s plan is the best plan for her life. Mary becomes a temple of God, an image of the pilgrim Church, a Church that goes forth for service, a Church that brings the Good News to all! “To experience the presence of the risen Christ in our own lives, to encounter him ‘alive,’ is the greatest spiritual joy, an explosion of light that can leave no one ‘untouched.’ Mary sets out immediately, anxious to bring the news to others, to bear witness to the joy of this encounter. “This too is what caused the haste of the first disciples following the resurrection: ‘[the women] left the tomb quickly with fear and great joy, and ran to tell his disciples’ (Mt 28:8).”1 3. Meditation “God created human beings to praise, reverence, and serve God, and by doing this, to save their souls. God created all other things on the face of the earth for the sake of human beings and to help them fulfill the purpose for which they are created.” These few words taken from the “The First Principle and Foundation” by Saint Ignatius of Loyola state the direction and the meaning of our life. May they guide us during this WYD also. How good it is to know that I am created to praise, reverence, and serve! How good it is to know that I am created for joy! In order to meditate on our vocation, let us look at Mary who is the “cause of our joy.” 1. Pope Francis, Excerpt from the Message for the 37th World Youth Day 2022-2023.
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