“Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.” Phil 4:8
Pondering, a word and quite possibly an action is one that yearns to be nourished. With the ‘push on’ of things we seem to be leaving behind time to pause and reflect on the goodness of life. Goodness exists in our families, homes, work places, church, nature and the world around us. If positive thoughts wither it may be reflective on the hills and valleys in life and eventually our hope. Lack of goodness in our thoughts may spread like snow in a blizzard and gradually covers the goodness which awaits to reveal itself in the light. Pondering is to carefully consider the topic at hand. It is also to contemplate a situation so that one is able to refresh with a good resolution. The heart needs to be guarded against things that are veer away from being fruitful in our hearts. Pondering on God’s love and goodness allows our body and soul to prosper.
In the spiritual realm to ponder allows one to put the mind on things that are pure, lovely and worthy. On this eve of the New Year and the Solemnity of Mother Mary, it is a contemplative time for Christians to ponder as Mary did on all things and on her ‘yes’ to be the Mother of the Earth and Saviour. Mother Mary beckons us come to her for she knows the perfect way to Jesus. It is the perfect way for us to live in harmony and peace. As the Wise Men came to honour Jesus, Mary reflected on the jubilation of the Wise Men, the shepherd and all that was happening. The same goodness wants to abide in our hearts. Throughout her life Mary spent time pondering on God’s love, in turn she became the perfect vessel of love. She became the ‘immaculate conception’ to bear the Saviour of the World. In that most breath-taking, auspicious moment she was able to say, “Behold I am a servant of the Lord, let it be done to me according to your word” Luke 1:38. Mary fulfilled her perfect purpose God intended.
It may be begin with simple affirmations on God’s love for all. God has his loving hands in all things. God yearns for growth within to dispel darkness and be filled with light. Asking, God how do you want me to grow in this? God what part of me would you like to perfect? Help me to see your love in a greater way. God help me to grow in humility. This New Year may we convert to purity of thoughts to make way for peace and love. Pondering on the way of Mary and Jesus may open hearts to God’s will and truly allow one to prosper in all facets.
Peace in your pondering,
Claudia