A blessing for Mary and a promise to us...
Reflections on the readings for the Solemnity of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary (August 15, 2020): RV 11:19; 12:1-6,10; PS 45:10,11,12,16; 1 COR 15:20-27; LK 1:39-56
MISSIO offers “Mission In Scripture” to nurture a missionary heart, providing reflections on the missionary themes in the readings of Sundays, Feast Days and Holy Days
In Christ Himself and through this special gift to His Mother, we perceive the glory that will ultimately be our own.
Today we unite in thanking God for the life of the Blessed Virgin Mary, our Mother and Queen. On the Solemnity of her Assumption, we also offer our deepest gratitude for seeing in Mary, who was taken to heaven both in soul and in body, the future of each person who belongs to her Son. Her unique relationship with the Holy Trinity reveals the appropriateness of her experiencing the unending glory that the rest of us will only know at the end of the world. In the Apostles’ Creed we say that we believe in “the resurrection of the body, and life everlasting.” The Blessed Virgin already knows what we can only dimly imagine. Jesus was crucified for our redemption and then rose from the dead. And He has already called His Mother to share in His triumph rather than letting her precious body that held Him in her womb, remain on earth. In Christ Himself and through this special gift to His Mother, we perceive the glory that will ultimately be our own. If we follow Him with the faith and love of Mary, we too will share the complete victory she enjoys now through Him.
In St. Paul’s letter to the people of Corinth, he reminds them of the history of God’s people and of the future that awaits us. “For since death came through man, the resurrection of the dead came also through man. For just as in Adam all die, so too in Christ shall all be brought to life, but each one in proper order: Christ the firstfruits; then, at His coming, those who belong to Christ” (1 Corinthians 15:21-23). No one has ever more truly belonged to Christ than His Blessed Mother, so her Assumption is both a blessing for her and a promise to us. Let us ask her to help us on now on earth so we can join her in eternity – body and soul.
Suggested missionary action: Today we can honor Mary on this feast of her Assumption into heaven by praying to her that we may imitate her complete loyalty to her Son. We can also ask her to help us always seek the kingdom of heaven in all we do.