The Chartres Labyrinth and Mary (1)

While walking and praying the labyrinth in Chartres, images of Mary have reminded me of God’s love. In the coming days and weeks I will be sharing a variety of these depictions of Jesus’ mother with you. Today I start with the image of Mary that is most visible from entrance of the labyrinth and when arriving at its center. Mary, as depicted in the Chartres Cathedral, is a support for Jesus–as his mother, his disciple, and even as in this image, as his throne.

 

My prayer

Jesus, may I, like your beloved mother, help others to see, know, and follow You.

Biblical touchstone

There was a wedding in Cana of Galilee, and the mother of Jesus was there. Jesus and his disciples had also been invited to the wedding. When the wine gave out, the mother of Jesus said to him, “They have no wine.” And Jesus said to her, “Woman, what concern is that to you and to me? My hour has not yet come.” His mother said to the servants, “Do whatever he tells you.” Now standing there were six stone water jars for the Jewish rites of purification, each holding twenty or thirty gallons. Jesus said to them, “Fill the jars with water.” And they filled them up to the brim. He said to them, “Now draw some out, and take it to the chief steward.” So they took it. When the steward tasted the water that had become wine, and did not know where it came from (though the servants who had drawn the water knew), the steward called the bridegroom and said to him, “Everyone serves the good wine first, and then the inferior wine after the guests have become drunk. But you have kept the good wine until now.” Jesus did this, the first of his signs, in Cana of Galilee, and revealed his glory; and his disciples believed in him. John 2:1-11

Invitation to prayer

Imagine yourself sharing Jesus with others in a very natural way that comes out of who God created you to be. What prayers are emerging in your heart, mind, body, and imagination? Pray them now.

Mary’s feet, planted firmly. She is a strong, grounded support for her son, Jesus.

Photo
Mary and Jesus blessing. Jesus is a child that looks like a man, thus showing both his human immaturity and divine wisdom. The top panels of the thirteenth century stained glass window in the East at the Chartres Cathedral in France.

The labyrinth in the Chartres Cathedral. Unfortunately, due to restorations it will not be open for walking again until the fall of 2016.