Assumption of the BVM

The Gospel reading today from Luke's Gospel is the Magnificat, Canticle of Mary.  It begins with Mary's praise of the present moment, "My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord, my spirit rejoices in God my Saviour... ."  From what little we have in the Scriptures about Mary, we get the impression that she is a woman who has carefully pondered the works of God. and has an understanding of the role of God's love and mercy in regards to salvation. 

While in this particular scenario Elizabeth is offering praise to Mary for her faithfulness, Mary directs the praise to God.  This song is not about her, but it is about God's relationship to humanity, and thus our response to God.  Mary has already experienced the Holy Spirit and is now open to give her unconditional 'Yes' to God.  Luke tells us that Mary ponders all of these mysteries in heart.  It is perhaps for this reason that she is able to direct the waiters at Cana to do whatever her son tells them to do.  We see her as one of the followers; amongst the crowd.  And of course she is there at the passion, and during Pentecost. 

It is interesting to compare Mary's response to that of the Apostles.  While Mary accepts the role of being the Theotokos, the Apostles remain concerned as to whom is the greatest of the Apostles.  Mary's profession of faith involves her entire self.  This is why we refer to her as the perfect disciple.  She does not hold back from God, but faithfully accepts the call of God to be part of salvation.

While St Paul refers to us as broken vessels, we are invited to recognize the sacred and profound gift we possess through Baptism, Confirmation, and the Eucharist.  To be sure Mary's role is quite different than our own we are asked to be faithful and true as disciples and stewards of faith.  Mary teaches us how to say 'Yes" to God the Father.  Hopefully we can affirm God's Son in our midst, and with Mary, and all of the Saints, proclaim the greatness of the Lord.