Solemnity of the Blessed Virgin Mary, the Mother of God
As the New Year begins, many hope that there will be something good and positive in the year ahead. The scripture readings today speak about God’s desire to bless us and fulfill the promises of mercy and love that have been made from ages past. Mary shows us how to trust in God’s word and to live out that faith filled with hope and courage.
In the first reading, the LORD tells Moses that Aaron and his sons should bless the Israelites. The LORD promises to be gracious to them, to give them peace, and bless them. The LORD wants these words of encouragement and hope to be given to the Israelites, so they will know that the LORD is with them and providing protection and mercy.
In the gospel reading, we hear again about God fulfilling the promises foretold. The shepherds find Jesus in the manger just as they were told by the angels. And the baby is given the name Jesus as the angel had foretold to Joseph in a dream.
In the reading from Galatians, St. Paul relates how God fulfills the promise of sending His Son, so we might receive adoption as children of God. God takes it one step further by sending the Spirit of his Son into our hearts, so we might be able to cry out “Abba, Father!” God reaches out to all people, so that all may know the mercy, protection and covenant love of God.
Mary provides us with the ideal faith response to God’s promises. When the angel comes to Mary, she responds “yes” and gratefully praises God in her belief that God will do as God promises. As the details of Jesus birth unfold, Mary continues to see God’s promise come to life (literally) in the birth of her son. The angels, shepherds, and wise men all confirm that God has done marvelous deeds through His Spirit in Mary’s life. Mary gathers all of these details and holds them close to her heart as she reflects on the blessings that she has received. Even in the midst of the challenges of her circumstances- being an unwed mother, traveling to Bethlehem, having no place to stay, fleeing to Egypt, and finally returning to Nazareth- Mary still trusts in God’s protection and has hope in the promises that God has shared with her.
As this New Year begins, for some it may be difficult to find hope for good things in the future. The pandemic continues to rage, there is discord in our community, our country and even our church. I know many people that are facing serious illness and even death. How and where can we find hope in the blessings of the LORD? Like Mary, I believe we are called to trust in God’s mercy and blessings even when things seem difficult. Even when Mary was faced with adversity, she remained convinced that God would do what has been promised. Mary’s hope and courage shine forth throughout her life as she continues to gather all of God’s revelations and hold them close in her heart. Even at the crucifixion, Mary stands by Jesus believing that God can and will fulfill the promise of salvation despite how dire things appear. Mary is able to reflect back on the many times that God has shared mercy and blessings in the past, so Mary believes that God can bring hope and light to even the darkest situations.
As disciples, we are called to respond to God’s promise of mercy and blessings like Mary. Even though things may seem bleak or overwhelming, we can spend time reflecting on the many ways that God has fulfilled His promises throughout our lives. When we remember God’s love, mercy and blessings from our past, we can step forward in faith even when things appear hopeless. Since we have been given the Spirit of the Son, we have the ability to cry out to “Abba” and the Father will hear our prayers. Just as Aaron and his sons blessed the Israelites long ago, God desires for the same blessing for us today:” The LORD bless you and keep you! The LORD let his face shine upon you, and be gracious to you! The LORD look upon you kindly and give you peace.” Let it be so!
Loving God, you have poured out your blessings upon your people throughout all generations. Help us to turn to you and find our hope and mercy in your promises as we begin this new year ahead. May your Spirit give us the courage and wisdom we need to go forth into the world filled with faith in Your love for us. We pray this in Christ’s name. AMEN
Marylynn Herchline