Today is the 20th Sunday in Ordinary Time of the church liturgical calendar. This being August 15th, it is also the Solemnity of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary. This is also the meditation for the fourth decade of the joyful mysteries of the rosary. At the end of her earthly life, God drew Mary home, assuming her into heaven where she would reign as queen until the end of time. From the beginning of her life here on earth, when she was immaculately conceived until the end, the Blessed Virgin confirmed her life to God’s will.
Mary was not the only person the angel Gabriel visited. Six months earlier he was sent to Zechariah. Elizabeth’s husband, to whom he announced that she would soon conceive a son as well. He chose not to believe the angel, and as a result was rendered mute until God’s promise to him and Elizabeth was fulfilled. Mary, however, chose to believe and consent to this most unusual and troubling proposal. Though not as dramatic, every day we too make choices to accept or reject God’s plan for us.
This feast celebrates Mary’s Assumption into heaven, body and soul. By baptism, we have a share in her Son’s victory over sin and death through his death and resurrection. Mary has shown us the way, a true model. May her heavenly reward be ours. In Mary’s assumption we have a glimpse of the heavenly reward God has planned for all who hold Christ dear in their heart.
Love, Peace, Joy,
Fr. Bob
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