Mary on Edge: A Homily for the Fourth Sunday of Advent

Do not be afraid, Mary.

We hear the gospel words
but any mother can tell you
fear and worry fall heavy on the heart.

Do not be afraid, Mary.

What about colic and ear infections?
What about school?
Will my child have friends?
What will I say when others make fun of my child?

Do not be afraid, Mary.

It began in fear, and the fear did not flee.
It tugged at her heart each time the baby’s cry turned shrill,
each time he ran from the house—as little boys do—
only to come back with a swollen lip or blood matted hair.

Fear.

This son of hers,
cradling lepers with open sores
lifting children into his lap;
going down to the river, out to the desert
out on the sea to pull in fish
with arms bronzed with the sun.

And she knew—as only a mother can know—
blood would string down his arms
now so strong, but once so small.
And nails would pierce the hands she once washed.

And some day soldiers would come—she knew—
they’d come for him.

--Jim Schmitmeyer