In today’s Gospel, we hear the parable of the Good Samaritan. The scholar questioning Jesus wishes to clarify who his neighbor is, no doubt to exclude some people he sees as unworthy. Jesus’ answer probably turns the scholar’s world upside down, but he is led to respond to Jesus’ question: “The one who treated him with mercy.”
Today we also celebrate the Feast of Our Lady of the Rosary, recalling the Battle of Lepanto that was won on October 7, 1571. It is for this reason that the month of October is traditionally dedicated to the Rosary. So, how does this Gospel connect to this Feast? Easily, I think.
Many would say they see Jesus in the role of the Good Samaritan but I actually see Mary in this role. When those who say they love Jesus would avoid caring for the Samaritan, Mary’s motherly care would bandage their wounds and take the injured person to an inn where they can recuperate.
In the same way, and especially through the intercession of the Rosary, Mary cares for the personal wounds of our heart and soul and brings all things, personal and communal, to Jesus for healing. Her tenderness intercedes for us where words fail. When we are so broken we can only mutter well-known, structured prayers, the Rosary lays out for us all that we need: praying as Jesus’ taught us in the Our Father, asking Mary’s heavenly intercession in the Hail Mary, and praising and glorifying the Holy Trinity in the Glory Be. Mary later requested that the Fatima prayer be added, begging release of both our own sins and for those of all humanity.
When all else fails you, take up your Rosary and pray it, knowing that Mary will be present as your Mother to comfort you and take your intentions to Jesus. And let us imitate Mary as the perfect disciple of Christ, caring for each other’s wounds.
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