NBVM Novena Day 5: Peace Through Forgiveness
On the fifth day of our Novena, which coincided with the Solemnity of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary and our parish feast day, Fr Dom reflected on three moments in Mary’s life that offer us a guide for Christian living: the Crucifixion, the Annunciation and the Nativity of Mary.
At the foot of the Cross, Mary witnessed the suffering and death of her innocent Son. Yet, with her eyes fixed on Jesus, she did not respond with vengeance. Instead, she witnessed Jesus pray, “Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do” (Luke 23:34).
The Cross reminds us that true peace comes through forgiveness. When we experience pain and hurt, are we able to forgive as Jesus did? Fr Dom encouraged us to spend time before the crucifix and ask God for the grace both to seek forgiveness and to forgive others. The Sacrament of Reconciliation offers us a concrete way to experience this healing and peace.
The second lesson comes from the Annunciation. Faced with a calling she did not fully understand, Mary responded, “Let it be done to me according to your word” (Luke 1:38). Her “yes” was not a single moment but a commitment she lived throughout her life—from the Annunciation to the Cross and into the life of the early Church.
Mary’s example challenges us to consider our own response to God’s call. Our mission is to say “yes” to God and to serve one another, even when the journey becomes difficult. Challenges, disappointments and hurts may tempt us to give up, but Mary teaches us to remain faithful and to trust in God’s strength.
Finally, the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary reminds us of God’s purpose for our lives. As St Paul writes, “All things work for good for those who love God, who are called according to his purpose” (Romans 8:28). Mary’s birth was part of God’s plan for salvation. Through a life centred on God, she was able to recognise His call and respond to it. God likewise calls each of us according to His purpose. Our task is to listen, discern and have the courage to follow where He leads.
Fr Dom summed up these three lessons simply: our vision is the Cross, our mission is to say “yes” to God’s will, and our purpose is to discover and live God’s plan for us. As we celebrate the birth of our Blessed Mother, may we follow her example: seeking and offering forgiveness, saying “yes” to God until the end, and faithfully living the purpose for which He has called us. In doing so, may we discover the peace that comes from walking with God. (KA)
