So Bathshe’ba went to King Solomon, to speak to him on behalf of Adoni’jah. And the king rose to meet her, and bowed down to her; then he sat on his throne, and had a seat brought for the king’s mother; and she sat on his right. Then she said, “I have one small request to make of you; do not refuse me.” And the king said to her, “Make your request, my mother; for I will not refuse you.”
– 2 Kings 2:19-20
In the Davidic kingdom, a special place of honor was reserved for the Queen Mother who sat to the side of the king. Her intercession was sought to bring one’s requests before the king. In the New Covenant Kingdom of God (the Church), the Blessed Virgin Mary intercedes in a similar way for us with her son. We are free to ask God for our needs directly, however, he is pleased to see us honor and turn to his mother for her assistance in the family of God.
The rosary combines prayer to God and request for the Blessed Mother’s prayers while also drawing us into meditation on the mysteries of our salvation. It is a powerful spiritual tool that no Catholic should neglect. Many graces flow from daily praying the rosary, especially with others. It is particularly powerful when prayed by the family for peace, their own needs, and the needs of others.
[nggallery id=5]