NBVM Novena Day 7: Mary, Humble Servant of the Lord
On the 7th day of the novena, themed Love and Harmony: Mary, Humble Servant of the Lord, Fr Christopher Loh shared three key reflections on the love taught by Jesus Christ, and how we can strive to imitate that same love in our own lives.
1. Agape Love: Unconditional and Self-Giving
In the Gospels, Jesus teaches Agape love—love without limits, unconditional and self-giving. Too often, we think of love only as an emotion, something we feel toward those who make us happy. For example, young couples today may be influenced by romantic movies or social media portrayals of “storybook love.” Christ, however, challenges us to go beyond feelings: “Love your enemies, bless those who curse you.”
Jesus’ love is sacrificial. He gave His life for all, even for those who rejected and persecuted Him. True love, then, is not merely an emotion but a decision. It is the daily choice to love and remain faithful, as seen in couples who continue to care for one another even in old age. This kind of love requires courage: the courage to forgive those who hurt us, to love without conditions, and to choose love even when it is difficult.
2. Love Is Not Passive, It Is Active
Love is not something we simply feel or wait to receive. True love takes action. To love is to serve, to reach out, and to pray for others. Mary herself gives us this example when, despite being with child, she travelled to visit her cousin Elizabeth, offering help and companionship.
Jesus demonstrated this active love at the Last Supper, washing the feet of His disciples in humility and service. Similarly, all of us are called to serve one another with patience and selflessness. In our church communities, misunderstandings or hurt feelings may arise, yet love compels us to return, to forgive, and to keep building communion. Active love means choosing to serve, forgive, and pray for one another.
3. Love Is Merciful
The love of Christ is merciful love. Jesus calls us: “Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful.” (Luke 6:36) In the prayer He taught us, we repeat these words daily: “Forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us.” Forgiveness is never easy, but as Christians, we are called to forgive and show mercy.
Mary, too, is our model of merciful love. In her humility, she listened more than she spoke, pondered the Word of God in her heart, and remained patient in the face of trials. Her example reminds us that mercy begins with humility and a willingness to listen.
Love is a choice, not just a feeling. It is lived through action, forgiveness, and perseverance. In our families, our communities, and our Church, let us practice a love that goes beyond fleeting emotions. Let us learn from Mary’s humility and Christ’s self-giving example to bear with one another, forgive freely, and always choose to love. (By Maria Choo)