Scripture Reflection for the Solemnity of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary
August 15, 2004
Blessed Are the Believers
An angelic messenger... a pregnant virgin... a happily celibate husband... there was obviously something special about Mary. But sometimes we forget that she was human, too. Regardless of what happened, the bottom line was that she had to have unconditional faith in the Lord. And speaking as someone whose middle name is Thomas, I find her complete trust in God to be absolutely amazing!
Body or Soul?
Life can be a little scary these days. I don't know about you, but when I get scared, I get really, really focused on saving my skin. I'm not worried about self-actualization or reaching a more profound spiritual state. I'm worried about getting my backside (and the body it's attached to) out of harm's way.
During times like that, it's almost impossible to think about the state of my soul. I'm definitely thinking about the afterlife -- and how I don't want to go there just yet -- but it's just not the same as being truly focused on my spiritual well-being.
Where's the Belief?
Unfortunately, the world today has many people feeling uneasy. And when you're always either watching for the "alert" color to change, or trying to pretend it doesn't exist, it's difficult to turn your eyes toward heaven and place your trust in the Lord. It's not that we disbelieve; it's more like we forget to believe.
That's why one particular verse in today's Gospel truly stood out in my mind. A verse that can sometimes get overlooked because of the popularity of the verses that come before it.
"Blessed are you who believed that what was spoken to you by the Lord would be fulfilled."
(Luke 1:45)
Mary believed. She believed something that most people would have thought preposterous. And yet her faith was so strong, she believed what was said, did what was asked, and stood among "those who believed" after the death of her son.
Mary was blessed by God, and doubly so because she believed in that blessing. On this, the Solemnity of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, let's remember that. And let's look to Mary whenever we find ourselves forgetting to believe.
Life Applications:
What do you do each week to focus on improving the state of your soul?
What would you do if an angel delivered a message from God to you?
How do you answer when God "calls" you through his Word, his Son, or your fellow Christians?
Copyright 2004 by Brandon Jubar
All rights reserved.
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