These reflections are not essential for the effective use of 'in the way of Mary'. The review process is a complete process in its own right. It is simple but that is one of its strengths.However, our use of the process can be enhanced by a richer appreciation of the Annunciation story. In these reflections, Marist Brothers offer some of their insights in regard to aspects of this story.
Because this story is crucial to the life giving force of our Marist charism, we can allow the charism to increase the vitality of our life as Marists by spending time deepening our sense of this story..
There are nine groups of reflections. Within each group a number of different Marists have shared some insights.
Some ways to use these reflections
Perhaps one day a month you could put aside some extra time for prayer and reflection (one to one and half hours).
Take one of the reflection sections. It is based around a particular phrase from the Annunciation story.
+ First, reflect on this phrase. What meaning does it hold for you. How does it relate to your life at the moment.
+ Ask Mary to teach you a deeper understanding of how to follow Jesus more closely by living out this phrase in the way of Mary.
+ Take one or two of the reflections from the section you have chosen. What words or images stand out for you. What feelings rise in you as you read the reflections?
+ How are these words, images or feelings connected withwhat is happening in your life at this time?
Maybe you could have a special recollection time.
Recollection is an age old process used in many spiritual traditions. It is a way of re-gathering our life experience and looking amongst it to see the footprints of God. (cf. page 14)
Set aside a day once a month or every six weeks. Take the whole day if you can and step aside from the business of your normal days. If you have a favourite place where you know that you can slow down and be reflective - go there.Remember that Marist Spirituality is an apostolic spirituality, so it begins in life and takes us back into life. A time of recollection is not a time of escape from life, but rather a time for seeing the movement of God that lies below the surface action of our lives. It is a case of looking with the 'eyes of God'.
As a way of focussing your recollection, you could use one of the sections of reflections and then use 'in the way of Mary' to review the last month or so of your life. (see above)
Perhaps you could use the reflections for individual or communal prayer on a Saturday (see page 15)
(Audio Available)
