Mary And The Assumption
“And from that time forth all knew that the spotless and precious body had been transferred to paradise.” ~ John the Theologian, The Falling Asleep of Mary (400 AD)
First and foremost, I have to admit that I have a problem with people who have a problem with the Blessed Virgin Mary. It amazes me that there are believers who have no problem believing in God. There are believers who have no problem accepting that God made us from the clay of the earth. There are believers who have no problem believing that God could become one of us as He was born in Bethlehem. There are believers who do not even have a problem with the idea of the virgin birth. But, try to mention the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary and they get their knickers in a knot.
Today, we celebrate the Solemnity of the Assumption. We believe and have held through the ages that Mary, at the end of her days on earth, was assumed body and soul into heaven. This would have been as a consequence of her Immaculate Conception. As she was born without the stain of original sin, her body would not be corruptible. We believe that after being placed in a tomb, God brought her to Himself, intact and whole, to paradise.
Why can we not believe that? Do we not believer that God can do anything that He wants? Do we not believe in great miracles throughout the ages? Then, why does Mary trip us up? We should rejoice in Mary’s Assumption into Heaven because it reminds us of that for which we are destined as well. If we do not believe that God can bring Mary to Himself, body and soul, how are we going to believe that we will rise from the dead?
Is that the problem? Do you not believe that you will rise from the dead at the end of your days if you live the life to which God has called you? Eternity with the Lord in Heaven is our goal, our hope, and our prize. God extends the opportunity to all who believe and accept it. I cannot think of anyone more worthy to accept and receive God’s grace than Mary. She played an incredibly awesome role in salvation history.
If you are struggling with your faith, I will pray for you this day. If you are solid in your faith, I ask you to join me in praying for those who struggle in theirs. Together, may we all come to the Kingdom of Heaven one day!
FAITH ACTION: Spend some time reflecting upon the Blessed Virgin Mary today. Perhaps say the rosary privately or together as a family.