August 15, 2021
Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary
“Assumption†is an odd name for a feast. Our English word “assumption†can mean “a statement, fact, or idea accepted as true without proof.†It can also mean “to take for oneself or as one’s right or privilege.†Both meanings of “assumption†apply to the Marry. We take as true that Mary was assumed or taken into heaven after her death. We also understand Mary humbly taking this special place of honor as God’s lowly servant. In the 5th century the feast was called “natale†or “dormitio.†“Natale†means birth. “Dormitio†means falling asleep. When Mary dies, she falls asleep in the Lord and is birthed to eternal life.
Our Gospel according to St. Luke, includes both Mary’s “Visitation†of Elizabeth and Mary’s “Magnificat.†Two Greek works for “blessed†are used four times in reference to Mary. Elizabeth praises Mary as a woman “blessed among women.†Elizabeth praises Mary as a mother. “Blessed is the fruit of your womb.†Elizabeth praises Mary as a disciple. “Blessed are you who believed that was spoken by the Lord would be fulfilled.†The fourth “blessed†is acknowledged by Mary in her Magnificat: “From this day all generations will call me blessed.â€
There is a recognition of divine “blessings†for us as we celebrate this feast. We hold true the assurance of Mary that God’s mercy is for those who fear God; that God lifts the lowly; that God fills the hungry with good things; that God helps his servant Israel and remembers his promise of mercy … to his children forever.†Mary’s song, her Magnificat, is a model of prayer for us. She praises God, she rejoices, she reflects on God’s providence and extols God’s mercy. Mary is our prayer partner as she brings our intentions to her son, Jesus Christ. We pray with Mary: “My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord; my spirit rejoices in God my savior.â€
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19th Sunday Ordinary B
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21st Sunday Ordinary B
