Maternal Messiah, who brings comfort to those in need, forgive us when we resist you when your desire is to care for us and shield us from harm. Give us hearts that are willing to be loved, that we would cease resisting your call and allow ourselves to be brought into the warmth of your arms, through you who reigns with benevolence from heaven with the Father and Holy Spirit. Amen. ‘Jerusalem, Jerusalem, the city that kills the prophets and stones those who are sent to it! How often have I desired to gather your children together as a hen gathers her brood under her wings, and you were not willing!’ – Luke 13:34