Stay with Me

Saturday was the Solemnity of the Annunciation. 

The angel Gabriel brought word to Mary that she would become the Mother of God.  

The words, "Stay with me, Lord" from St. Padre Pio's prayer came to my mind as I reflected on the Annunciation.

I visualized Mary praying a similar prayer after the announcement of her unborn child, the Son of God. 

I began writing what Mary might have been thinking... 

Stay with Me 

I do not know what awaits my Son  

 I pray to my Son - Stay with me 

I do not want to lose him or be separated from him 

 I pray to my Son - Stay with me 

I do not want him to stumble or fall 

 I pray to my Son - Stay with me 

I will not be able to kiss him and make it better 

Again I pray - Stay with me 

I cannot prevent the evil that will kill my Son  

I want to protect Him 

But He does not need protection

He is the Son of God 

Still I pray

Stay with me 

I will look at my Son and my heart will be pierced

Through tears I pray  - Stay with me 

His crowned head pressed close to my heart 

In the silence of my heart - Stay with me 

But for now I'll keep him safe inside of me

Stay with me in my heart forever 

Painting by Erin K. McAtee