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Reflections on the significance of the Feast of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Christian life
Fr. Jinu Jacob, Vatican City, Br. Albin feeding MDR
“Mary’s ascension must have been more glorious than Jesus’ ascension. Only angels came to receive the Son of God, while the Messiah and all the heavenly host came to welcome Mary.” These are the words of Saint Peter Damian.
The Second Vatican Council expresses the Assumption of Mary in these terms: “The Immaculate Mary, preserved from all stains of original sin, was taken up, after the completion of her earthly life, into heavenly glory in a spiritual body. The Lord made her the queen of the universe so that she might be more like her Son, the Lord of lords and conqueror of sin and death.”
On November 1, 1950, Pope Pius XII proclaimed the Assumption of the Mother of God as a truth of faith through the document entitled ‘Munificentissimus Deus’. This is a divinely revealed belief that upon the end of her physical life, the Holy Mother was assumed into heaven with both her soul and body.
For 14 years following Jesus’ death, the Holy Mother remained with His disciples, comforting their sorrows, caring for the sick, and spreading her life as the Gospel of Christ. Traditional belief maintains that Mary died 14 years after the birth of Jesus, an event often referred to as Mary’s deep sleep.
According to St. John Damascene, St. Thomas was not present at the time of the Holy Mother’s death. Upon arriving on the third day and requesting to see her body, the tomb was opened with Peter’s permission, only to find that her physical body was missing. It is believed that she was taken up to her Son in spirit and body. Since the 6th century, this day has been celebrated in the Eastern Church as ‘Mother’s Dormition’, later known as Swargaropana Thirunal.
There are four beliefs about the Holy Mother: Holy Mary as the Immaculate Conception, Holy Mary as the Eternal Virgin, Holy Mary as the Mother of God, and Holy Mary as the Assumption. The first three beliefs lead us to the fourth, the profound conviction that the holy Mother was taken up to heaven with her Son.
The understanding that the life of the Holy Virgin Mary, who shared in the salvation of the world alongside Jesus, should not be confined to earth but continue eternally with her Son, inspires us to celebrate the Feast of the Assumption.
The first letter of Saint Paul the Apostle to the church in Corinth, chapter fifteen, verse forty-four, states: “What is sown in a physical body is raised in a spiritual body.” Mary’s life, save for the absence of original sin, was genuinely human. Born into this world as a daughter of God with a fully human form, Mary was chosen by God to be the mother of His Son, thus beginning her journey from the material to the spiritual. This journey, as per God’s will, is central to Mary’s ascension.
In saying, ‘Here is the handmaid of the Lord’, and entrusting herself to God’s will, the Holy Mother ascended to God as His handmaiden, as the mother of Jesus, and as the beloved bride of the Holy Spirit. This is the response of the Mother. Her invocation empowers every individual to believe that there is a Mother in heaven who provides assistance in moments of helplessness and hope in despair. This feast also reminds us to maintain purity in both body and soul.
Faith in the resurrection of our bodies is a truth we profess in the Creed. Therefore, this feast emphasizes the necessity of preserving our bodies, the temples of God, in purity, so that we can live on earth as pure beings and prepare ourselves daily to reach God by safeguarding the purity of the white garment bestowed upon us through baptism.
Cardinal Newman describes the Holy Mother as “The Holy Mother is the door of heaven. The Holy Mother is the door that allowed the Savior of the world, Jesus Christ, to come down to earth. The Holy Mother is the door through which humanity strives to achieve the eternal gift of the Kingdom of Heaven. God descended to earth, and man ascended to heaven through the door of the Blessed Virgin Mary.”
Upon reflecting on the life of the Holy Mother, we realize her life was deeply rooted in faith. Holy Mary has provided an exemplary model of faith for all humanity through her existence. The Kingdom of Heaven is God’s gift to believers.
In accordance with divine plan, the Holy Virgin Mary, who embraced the word of God by sacrificing her own will and desires, is the gift from God, the entrance to heaven. The Assumption signifies God’s gift to Mary, to be with Jesus where He is after she lived a holy life, dedicating herself to God.
The Blessed Virgin Mary journeyed alongside Jesus throughout His life. From the moment she humbled herself before God’s will, being joyful amid sorrow, wealth amid poverty, health amid illness, and strength amid weakness, the Holy Mother was always present with Jesus. This pilgrimage allowed her to comfort the disciples with a motherly heart, dispelling their fears after Jesus’ resurrection.
Scripture introduces us to the Holy Mother during the Feast of Cana, where she walks with Jesus, observes the shortcomings of others, and pleads for her Son’s intercession to address their needs. Just as they lacked wine, many people today suffer from a deficiency of goodness, health, and well-being, which is why God bestowed upon the Holy Mother the grace of heavenly invocation to be in His presence.
The Assumption serves as a reminder that we have a mother in heaven interceding for us in our lives and in our shortcomings. The Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary reassures us that beyond the suffering, joys, and sorrows of this world, there is eternal life with the Holy Trinity, the saints, and the angels.
In contemplating the significance of this holy day, reflecting on several verses from the hymn of the Holy Mother can be helpful. The most crucial of these is the divine mercy on which she relied throughout her life: “My soul magnifies the Lord.” These words express her dedication to God’s plan beyond human desires and ambitions and affirm the immortality of the unfading soul.
Her expressions of humility, recognizing her insignificance and proclaiming the glory of the Lord as central to her life, made the Holy Mother worthy of being taken to heaven. She desired God’s greatness in the world and in her personal life and was unafraid to sacrifice human freedoms for His glory.
As God is great, the Holy Mother shares the belief that He will uplift, expand, and enrich the lives of those who believe in Him. The Assumption of the Holy Mother also assures us that He will elevate and enrich our humble lives with His glory.
In the modern age, this feast provides an opportunity to shed erroneous thoughts that cloud our lives. The Holy Mother lovingly clarifies the notion that when we draw near to God Almighty, He does not condemn or judge us for our shortcomings.
The Assumption of the Holy Mother highlights the greatest temptation we face as humans: those who seek meaning in their lives by denying God will inevitably fail. This truth is encapsulated in the words of the Holy Mother: “He overthrew the mighty from their thrones.” Thus, the gift of humility is a divine offering to heaven. This feast also urges us to be vigilant in our relationship with God, recognizing that our true glory resides only in His presence.
He has promised not only the salvation of our souls amidst the fleeting treasures of this world but has also given His life to obtain them, reinforcing our faith through His Mother. Nothing precious will be destroyed, as the Lord said: “Even the very hairs of your head are numbered” (Matthew 10:30). The Assumption of the Holy Mother confirms that our lives encompass the depth, height, and characteristics of heaven, guiding us toward that glory.
Mary’s Assumption inspires hope for humanity to live with the aim of life after death, embracing the sufferings of this earth. The Ascended Mother reminds us of the impermanence of life in this world and the importance of striving for eternal life beyond our mortal existence.
Jesus advises in John 6:27, “Do not labor for the bread that perishes, but for the bread that the Son of Man will give you for eternal life.” The Holy Mother teaches us to live with an understanding of future goodness, transcending life’s trivialities and sufferings. However, by fulfilling our responsibilities in our daily lives, we can enter the kingdom of heaven after death, as the heavenly Mother, the queen of the three worlds, reminds us.
Beyond the intellectual debate regarding whether the Holy Mother ascended to heaven with a spiritual body while alive or after death, she is the one who triumphed over Satan by defeating death. This grand feast calls us to pray with greater faith and fervor, particularly when seeking the Mother’s intercession at the time of our passing.
Thoughts on the Importance of the Feast of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Christian Life
The Feast of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary is a pivotal occasion in the Christian calendar that celebrates the belief that Mary, the mother of Jesus Christ, was assumed body and soul into heavenly glory. This event not only acknowledges Mary’s unique role in salvation history but also serves as a spiritual beacon for Christians today. Here, we explore the profound significance of this feast in Christian life.
The Historical and Theological Foundations of the Assumption
Declared a dogma of the Catholic Church on November 1, 1950, by Pope Pius XII through the document ‘Munificentissimus Deus’, the Assumption is deeply rooted in tradition and scripture. The feast is celebrated annually, emphasizing its importance as part of the Christian doctrine.
Saint Peter Damian poignantly expressed: “Mary’s ascension must have been more glorious than Jesus’ ascension. Only angels came to receive the Son of God. The Messiah and all the heavenly host came to receive Mary.” These words resonate deeply, highlighting Mary’s exalted status in the Christian faith.
The Teaching of the Second Vatican Council
The Second Vatican Council beautifully encapsulates the essence of the Assumption: “The Immaculate Mary, preserved from all the stains of original sin, upon the completion of her earthly journey, was transported with spiritual bodies to heavenly glory.” This defines Mary not just as a figure in history but as a vital link between humanity and the divine.
Mary’s Life: A Model for Christian Living
During the critical years following Jesus’ death, Mary played a pivotal role among the disciples. She was a source of comfort and hope as they navigated their sorrows. Mary’s conduct during these times exemplifies a life devoted to service, humility, and unwavering faith.
- Mary’s Humility: “Here is the handmaid of the Lord.” Mary’s response to God’s calling is a powerful reminder for all Christians to embrace humility and self-giving.
- Perseverance in Suffering: Mary’s journey reflects the Christian call to endure trials with grace and faith.
- Intercession: As our heavenly Mother, Mary continues to intercede for us, reminding us of her ceaseless support.
Theological Significance of the Assumption
According to Christian theology, Mary’s Assumption reaffirms the belief in the resurrection. As stated in the First Epistle of Saint Paul to the Corinthians, chapter fifteen, verse forty-four: “What is sown in the physical body is born again in the spiritual body.” This promise of resurrection extends to all believers, underscoring the essence of faith in eternal life.
Mary’s ascendancy to Heaven encapsulates the hope that all purify themselves through faith and dedication will ultimately join Christ in eternal life. Her Assumption serves as a divine reminder of the afterlife, urging Christians to strive toward spiritual purity.
Celebration of the Assumption: Traditions and Practices
Across various cultures and denominations, the Feast of the Assumption is celebrated with unique traditions:
- Feast Days: Special masses are held, and community gatherings commemorate Mary’s Assumption.
- Processions: Many towns and parishes organize processions to honor Mary, inviting the community to reflect on her life and virtues.
- Prayer and Devotion: The Rosary and other Marian prayers are prominently featured during this time, fostering a deeper connection to Mary.
Benefits of Celebrating the Feast of the Assumption
Observing this feast brings numerous benefits to Christians, acting as a spiritual renewal:
- Inspiration to Live Faithfully: Mary’s life encourages a commitment to God’s will, serving as a model of faithfulness and obedience.
- Strengthened Community Bonds: This feast nurtures community spirit, creating opportunities for collaboration and shared worship.
- Rejuvenation of Faith: It serves as a reminder of the divine promise of resurrection and eternal life, rejuvenating believers’ spirits.
Practical Tips for Observing the Feast
- Participate in Mass: Attend a church service on the Feast of the Assumption to experience the communal aspect of faith.
- Educate Yourself: Read scripture and church teachings about Mary’s life and her role in salvation history.
- Pray the Rosary: Make it a habit to pray the Rosary, especially with the intention of seeking Mary’s intercession.
Mary as a Source of Hope
Mary’s Assumption offers believers a source of hope and encouragement in facing life’s trials. Each prayer to her reinforces the belief that she, as our heavenly intercessor, guides and supports us through every challenge. This maternal love reminds us that we are never alone in our struggles.
Furthermore, as Cardinal John Newman articulated, “The Holy Mother is the door of heaven.” This portrayal emphasizes that through Mary, believers can approach Jesus, enhancing our spiritual journey. The feast allows Christians to reflect on their relationship with Mary and what it means to have her as a mother in heaven.
| Aspects of the Assumption | Significance |
|---|---|
| Theological Foundations | Affirms belief in resurrection and eternal life |
| Mary’s Role | A model of faith, humility, and service |
| Celebration | Strengthens community and individual faith |
| Spiritual Practices | Encourages prayer, reflection, and connection to God |
In summary, the Feast of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary is not just a historical observance but a living testament of faith, hope, and love in the Christian tradition. It invites believers to deepen their spirituality and acknowledge Mary’s role in guiding them toward a relationship with God. Through celebration and reflection, Christians are reminded of their goal: eternal life with the Holy Trinity, reinforced by the maternal embrace of the Blessed Mother.
