Fatima

Here in Portugal the name Fatima is a name common to many woman. It is also seen in part of the name given to stores. Looking at a map of Portugal you will also find it is a small town in central Portugal. It is this small town called Fatima that is known world wide, especially amongst the Catholic community. In 1917, in the village of Fatima, the Virgin Mary is said to have appeared to three shepherd children. These visions took place a handful of times over a number of months. The last appearing was said to have been witnessed by a number of people present at the spot.

Since that time the village has become a pilgrimage destination with bus loads coming regularly to pay their respects to Mary. A large Cathedral, outdoor sanctuary, and conference center can be found in the middle of the small village in honor of Mary. It is not uncommon to find many of the devoted coming to the site on their knees or stomach.

Candles are bought and lit as prayers are offered to Mary.

My visit to Fatima was motivated out of curiousity and the desire to learn more about the spiritual culture here in Portugal. I also have a fellow student, from Thailand, who is a believer in the visions seen at Fatima and spends most of his weekends in Fatima.

Some thoughts and questions floated through my mind as I visited the sights of Fatima. In the book of Luke, we read that when the angel Gabriel visited Mary he called her "highly favored." Later as she visits Elizabeth, Elizabeth refers to her as "blessed among women." Jesus relationship towards his parents was one of obedience (Luke 2 end of the chapter). These texts help me understand that Mary was set apart for a special purpose by God and for that she has my respect.

What saddened me that day in Fatima was seeing people focused on giving worship to Mary, and not Jesus. His words are clear as He tells us that we should have no other gods before Him or make idols for ourselves (Exodus 20). God in his goodness loves us humans beings not for what we do FOR Him but what we do WITH Him. He desires us to LOVE HIM WITH ALL OUR HEART, SOUL, STRENGTH, AND MIND (Luke 10:27).

Lord, I left that day reminded how each of us are created with the nature to worship. Daily my affections, energy, and time are being bombarded with things wanting to fill that need. Yet Lord, you are the only thing worthy of my worship. Find me faithful!