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During Advent, many reflect on the experiences of Mary as she prepared for the birth of Christ. For young Catholic girls, Mary is often a figure of wonder, symbolizing purity and grace across cultures. As children grow, their understanding deepens into the mystery surrounding Mary's life.
In November, just before Advent, "The Reed of God" by Caryll Houselander was revisited. Originally published in 1944, Houselander's work explores the perceived distance between people and Mary. She notes that misconceptions about virginity and a lack of information about Mary's life contribute to this distance.
Houselander writes: “To many she is the Madonna of the Christmas card, immobile, seated forever in the immaculately clean stable of golden straw and shining snow.” She adds that virginity involves “the whole offering of soul and body to be consumed in the fire of love.”
Regarding Mary's humanity, Houselander states: “She is not only human; she is humanity.” The absence of detailed accounts about Mary's life allows individuals to see that “Christ must be born from every soul.”
Mary's life offers an example through which individuals can find meaning in their own lives. Houselander suggests that everyone should consider how they might bring Christ into their lives: “Are we reed pipes? Is he waiting to live lyrically through us?”
Advent is described as “the season of humility, silence, and growth,” paralleling Mary’s experience as she awaited Christ’s birth. This period encourages believers to trust in God's plan despite uncertainties.
Mary's first "yes" to God extended throughout her life even to witnessing Jesus' crucifixion. Houselander reflects on this trust: “At that moment...she also received her dead son in her arms.”
Houselander's reflections during World War II continue to resonate today amid modern concerns. Her insights encourage following Mary's example during Advent as a path toward hope and triumph over adversity.
Lauretta Brown serves as culture editor for OSV News and can be followed on X (formerly Twitter) @LaurettaBrown6.
