And Mary pondered these things in her heart.

Appropriately, we begin our year with the Solemnity of Mary.  The gospel invites us back to the manger, the visit of the shepherds and ending eight days later with Jesus’ circumcision.  We are told that Mary pondered these events—the infant in her arms was her son and also her savior.  She must have been reminded of her words nine months prior when she affirmed, “I am the handmaid of the Lord.  May it be done to me according to your Word.” From that “yes”, Mary would become an integral part of the plan of salvation and continues in that role in the world today.  Her one yes, renewed throughout her life, serves as the example of a disciple.  Let us ponder, as did Mary, our own “yes,” keeping what happens along our journey in our heart.