In celebrating the solemnity of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, we are reminded that Mary is raised by God’s power, body and soul, and lifted into Heaven. Traditionally our Church has stated that her body did not decay but that she was raised, body and soul.
In the Gospel of Luke, we witness a profound encounter between two women: Mary and her cousin, Elizabeth. When Mary greets Elizabeth, the baby in Elizabeth’s womb leaps for joy, and Elizabeth, filled with the Holy Spirit, exclaims the wonders of God. She proclaims the greatness of the Lord who has done mighty deeds in her life and Mary’s. In response, Mary offers a humble yet powerful song of praise, known to us as the Magnificat: “My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for He has looked with favour on the lowliness of His servant.”
This is a moment where two expectant mothers, carrying within them the Proclaimer and the Savior of the world—John the Baptist and Jesus—share the joy of their miraculous pregnancies. This scene resonates deeply with many mothers, as they can relate to the unique bond formed when one expectant mother meets another. In their simple yet profound way, these women become the first heralds of the King of Kings. Unlike other religions that begin with the teachings of adults, Christianity begins with the birth of a child. From that moment onward, Christians have upheld the sanctity of family and life, a tradition handed down through generations.
Luke’s Gospel tells us that Mary “went with haste” to visit Elizabeth; she is eager to do good. With deliberate speed, Mary becomes the first nurse of Christian civilization, a woman rushing to meet another woman in need. Those who carry Christ within their hearts and souls serve their neighbours best.
The two women in this Gospel passage are extraordinary. Their lives have not been easy: Elizabeth bears a child in her old age, while Mary carries a child amid the criticisms and challenges of her family and community. They exemplify the biblical truth that “nothing is impossible with God.” This is especially true of Mary, who faced numerous difficulties, challenges, and uncertainties from the moment she conceived the Son of the Living God. Yet, she never wavered in her faith in God’s promises.
Please pray for all those who have died recently:
Thomas Mani (87), George Kakkassery (75) Thomas Chummar (81) P V Varghese Punnackapadavil (88) Marykutty Mathew (76)
Commemorate the Death Anniversaries of Our Loved Ones:
Prof.Baby Varghese Menacherry (61)2001.
