Some people feel they have done enough for the poor and needy when they have given money. But for Margaret of Scotland- a busy wife, mother and queen giving money was never enough. She was right there with the poor, washing their feet and making sure they had food to eat and clothes to wear. Only after all the others were cared for would she herself eat and rest.
Margaret was born into a noble family and raised in royal court in Hungary. When she was 12, she was sent to the English court of Edward the Confessor. There she was further educated. But when the Normans conquered England, Margaret, her mother, brother, and sister tried to return to Hungary. Their ship was blown off course, and they landed in Scotland. They were warmly welcomed by King Malcolm III. The king fell in love with the beautiful and gentle Margaret. They were married in 1070.
Scotland was a rough country, and although Malcolm was a god man, he was more of a soldier than a gentleman. Margaret helped him become a virtuous, gracious leader. They had eight children-two girls and six boys-and all of them grew to love the poor and care for them just as their parents had before them.
Margaret was known for her prayerfulness as well as her charity. She would rise early in the morning to go to the castle chapel before another busy day began. Her most prized possession was her prayer book. She gathered a group of women together to study and discuss the Scriptures and to embroider vestments and find altar cloths. She called Church councils to encourage observance of Lent, respect for the Eucharist, and keeping Sunday holy.
The queen was often approached by beggars, and she gave them money and clothes. She helped ransom the English who had been captured and she set up homes and hospitals for strangers, the sick, and the poor. She and her husband would go to the church in the middle of the night during Lent and Advent. On the way home, they would wash the feet of six poor people and give them money. At home Margaret would personally feed nine orphans who were brought to her daily.
Her concern was for all her people. She brought a love of the arts and education to the people, and they loved her in return. So well did she teach her children to love God that they are believed to be primarily responsible for two centuries of progress and peace in Scotland.
Margaret died four days after her husband Malcolm. In 1250 she was canonized and later declared patroness of Scotland. People today still look to her example. She saw Christ in the poor and did not wait for someone else to take care of their needs. She was there-and led others to loving service as well. |
