I've been pondering lately about this 'dual' calling that the Lord has put before me...the Contemplative world of the Carmelites and what at first glimpse seems to be a more 'worldly' call of the Charismatic Renewal. How do they fit together? Are they diverging? Do they unite at some point? So many questions that I've posed to Him. My answer came quickly and simply to me today. If Carmel is the stem, long and dignified with its deep roots and occasional thorns...the Charismatic movement then is the bloom...it reaches out to heaven with arms out stretched giving off its delicate aroma in worship and praise of Our Lord Jesus Christ.
Mary then is the perfect model for both.
FLOWER of Carmel,
Tall vine blossom laden;
Splendor of heaven,
Childbearing yet maiden.
None equals thee.
Mother so tender,
Who no man didst know,
On Carmel's children
Thy favors bestow.
Star of the Sea.
Strong stem of Jesse,
Who bore one bright flower,
Be ever near us
And guard us each hour,
who serve thee here.
Purest of lilies,
That flowers among thorns,
Bring help to the true heart
That in weakness turns
and trusts in thee.
Strongest of armor,
We trust in thy might:
Under thy mantle,
Hard press'd in the fight,
we call to thee.
Our way uncertain,
Surrounded by foes,
Unfailing counsel
You give to those
who turn to thee.
O gentle Mother
Who in Carmel reigns,
Share with your servants
That gladness you gained
and now enjoy.
Amen Hail, Gate of Heaven,
With glory now crowned,
Bring us to safety
Where thy Son is found,
true joy to see.
No comments:
Post a Comment