In the history of the Roman Empire we find an anecdote involving a brave and valiant General, Coriolanus. Whatever loyalty he had to his people was completely shattered one day, when the citizens of Rome offended him. He felt so wronged that he resolved to get his revenge. He abandoned his country, and joined the army of the enemy.

This hostile army was already at the gates of the city, and threatened to destroy it.

The Romans were filled with dismay on seeing their former invincible General leading the enemy. For it was obvious that the Romans stood no chance in this battle. They sent messengers to him asking for peace, but he refused to grant it.

Then ambassadors chosen from the highest ranks of the city were sent to beg him to spare the city. But he still refused, and told them that, for the dishonor the people of the city had heaped upon him, he would show them no mercy.

Finally, as a last recourse, they thought of his mother, who was within the walls. They begged her to speak to her son, and intercede for them, that for her sake he might spare the city.

When Coriolanus saw his mother approaching, tears came into his eyes; and when she asked him to have pity upon the ungrateful inhabitants for her sake, he said:

“My mother, you have overcome my resentment.” And looking past her, to the walls of Rome, he added “For my mother’s sake, O country which has so grievously offended me, I pardon thee.”

He departed along with his army, and Rome was saved on that day.

Will Jesus Christ do less for us, if His Mother requests Him to show us mercy? The Love that He has for His dear Mother is infinitely greater than the repugnance He has for our sins. So all of us can be filled with a sweet confidence in Her, since She is our loving Mother, and has such power with Her Divine Son.

Let us all honor and love our good Mother Mary – not only to obtain mercy for our sins, but even more, that She may bring us to imitate Her and share in the wonderful love of Jesus Christ, our Redeemer.