I rose at 3:30 am on the Feast of the Immaculate Conception this past December 8th. I had to catch an early flight on my way to New Hampshire in the U.S. to give two parish missions.
Yes, another border crossing into the States. As many of you know, these crossings have been difficult for us lately and nothing short of a spiritual battle.
When I arrived at Toronto’s U.S. Customs, I was taken once again to a detention area. I was "greeted" by perhaps the most arrogant of all border agents yet. This time, no one in the room was spared his gruffness and degradation. When it was my turn to go to the counter, I was accused of essentially forging the two letters I presented from the priests who invited me. It only went downhill from there.
When I eventually sat down, I knew in my heart this guy wasn’t going to let me cross. I began to pray for him and bless Him, surrendering the situation to God. I looked down at my suitcase and the tag with my home address written on it, and thought of holding my kids again…
Then I turned to Our Lady and said, "Mother, I don’t know what God’s will is. It seems to me that I should preach the Gospel here. And so, I pray that I may have this opportunity." I prayed one or two Hail Mary’s. It’s all I could muster up as the oppression was so thick. I’ve learned that, even when we expect it, our humanity is weak before angelic beings, even fallen angels. Fortunately, Christ is stronger, infinitely stronger. And the devil trembles, said an exorcist, at even one Hail Mary.
A few minutes later, my name was called again. I stood up, turned around, and sitting there at the desk was a different agent! I walked up and as he began to speak, the tension vanished immediately. He was perhaps the kindest border agent I’ve ever met. He asked a few questions and promised he would get me on my way as quickly as possible.
And with that, I entered the United States.
MARY, WOMAN WITH COMBAT BOOTS
Yes, this time, the Lord said, "Enough!" I don’t know what happened to the other agent. I don’t know why he suddenly left… a coffee break, a phone call… I don’t know. All I know is that the timing was divine. Since arriving at my first mission here in New Hampshire, the Holy Spirit has been moving powerfully—and it hasn’t even started yet.
If you live in New Hampshire or the surrounding area, you are welcome to attend any or all of the evening missions planned. The schedule can be found on my main website at: www.markmallett.com/Concerts
I ask you to intercede for all the souls whom Jesus wishes to heal and deliver during this week. Indeed, the Woman’s heel has just begun to fall…
