Although I've not yet had an opportunity to read this book as of yet, I do want to draw to your attention another recently published book about the Blessed Mother by the same title.
Behold Your Mother: Priests Speak About Mary, by Monsignor Steven Rosetti, is reviewed here at Vultus Christi. Just as Mary has a special attachment to mothers (in my case, adoptive mothers), she also dearly loves the men who uniquely represent her Son in the world. I'm referring, of course, to Catholic clergy (bishops, priests, and deacons).
I was particularly struck with one quote from Monsignor Rosetti's book, as quoted on the blog:
"I find it a consolation to know that Mary will remain with me, too, in these dark times. When she looks at us, she sees men who are configured to her Son, and thus she looks t us with a special tenderness and holy warmth. How could she
not love us with a particular love when she sees the face of Christ in us?"
I understand that Mark Shea is also publishing a trilogy by the same title, but as far as I can tell it has not yet been published in book form, but is scheduled to be released by Catholic Answers. I'm sure it will be worthwhile reading.
An "exchange" on CatholicExchange these past few days has reminded me of the fact that none of us -- myself included -- have a complete picture of the deep mysteries of the faith. By embracing the prescribed dogmas of the Church regarding Mary, we can avoid slipping beyond the pale of revealed truth. However, there is much about the faith (such as the early history of Joseph prior to his betrothal to Mary) that we simply cannot know for sure. To the extent that we hold our opinions loosely, always subject to the spiritual authorities over us, and treat one another with respect, these ponderings can be of great spiritual benefit. To the extent that we allow pride to get a toehold, truth is distorted, divisions are created, and evil wins.
Everything that is necessary for our salvation subsists in the Church, especially in the liturgy and sacraments, in the Magisterium (that is, in the continual, unbroken line from the time of the Apostles to the current bishops united under the Bishop of Rome), and in Tradition (including the Scriptures). While there are some things that shall always remain a mystery until we reach heaven ... these elements are crystal-clear. To grow spiritually is to become perfected in love -- the kind of love that embraces and transforms the entire person: body, soul (intellect, volition, and memory), and spirit.
Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us;
That as we seek to grow in understanding,
we might seek knowledge perfected in humility,
and wisdom perfected in love. Amen.
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