THIS IS A CARVED IMAGE of the Mother of God holding her Infant Son. They are smiling, confident and joyful in their love. The statue comes to us from the 13th century - a time of bloody crusades and war with Islam. Is there ever a time without bloodshed and war?
We can't know for sure how ancient Latin sounded, but Pie Jesu sounds lovely when pronounced Pie (Pea-ay) Jesu (Yay-sue) It translates: devoted (as to a family member) loving, tender, affectionate Jesus. The Christ playfully holds His Mother's chin. The tender love of God for troubled humanity. It is said we smile much less than even fifty years ago. Why is that?
Let's not just catch a glance of the picture but hold it a good while. And then make our prayer for the day.
At the start of the new day...Pie Jesu.
In the first thoughts of the morning...Pie Jesu.
In the people I will meet...Pie Jesu.
Where fears arise...Pie Jesu.
As I will need patient strength today...Pie Jesu.
There are thoughts of the children...Pie Jesu.
That I would live today in confidence...Pie Jesu.
That heaven can depend on me...Pie Jesu.
My answer to what's depressing and fearsome...Pie Jesu
In what's tedious and tiresome...Pie Jesu.
That I would keep my joy...Pie Jesu.
That everyone would be safe and healthy...Pie Jesu.
For protection where there's danger...Pie Jesu.
When I lose my sense of meaning...Pie Jesu.
In the flashes of anger...Pie Jesu.
In the friendships I've been given...Pie Jesu.
The dreams I have...Pie Jesu.
My love for you...Pie Jesu.
And the smile of your Mother...Pie Jesu.
