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At the commencement of Our Lord's life, the Gospels assign an important position to the Blessed Virgin, and exalt her glory. After this there is the long obscurity of the thirty years at Nazareth, enveloping both Son and Mother. Christ then emerges into full sight, and Our Lady remains in the background, appearing only in the three days loss, at Cana and on Calvary. There are two references to her besides; where Our Lord says that His disciples are to Him both mother and brethren; and again, referring to her: "Yea, rather, blessed are they who hear the word of God and keep it" (Luke viii. 21, xi. 28). Further, on some notable occasions the Blessed Virgin is absent, from the glorification of Our Lord on Thabor, and from the last supper; and she is not mentioned in any accounts of Our Lord's appearances after His Resurrection. Thus the Blessed amongst women is passed over, she seems to be purposely ignored and even humbled. This is the mystery of her obscurity. Yet this is the best evidence of her greatness and holiness. She is placed in an exceptional position, and apart from all others who are sinners. Wonderful are the ways of God! He seems to abandon you when He is nearest; He shows His favour by chastening you; He humbles you in order that you may be the more elevated. Submit with faith and resignation.
