"Juan, you are my ambassador..."

Today is the feast of Our Lady's chosen one, San Juan Diego. As I decided what image to post in honor of Juan Diego today, I realized that the life of Juan Diego and the story of Our Lady of Guadalupe are not separable so the two images naturally go together. This particular rendering of the image struck me as blending traditional and non-traditional elements that draw one's attention to Juan Diego in ways that other portrayals don't do as clearly.

On the hill of Tepeyac, our Lady chose the most humble of men to be her ambassador, to carry her message to the elite of the day, the Bishop.

Who is it that Our Lady chooses today to be her ambassador, to carry her message to the people of this day?

Is it you and me whom Our Lady asks to bear witness? Are we able to demonstrate the faith and perseverance that the humble Juan bore in his day?

Blessed San Juan Diego,

pray for us,

that we may be made worthy

of the promises of Christ

and His Blessed Mother Mary!

Special blessings for all who hold San Juan Diego as patron and intercessor,

including the people of Mision San Juan Diego, Arlington Heights, IL,

and all parishes and centers dedicated to the heritage and faith of San Juan Diego.