Word to the Wise
Friday, August 15, 2008 - The Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary
[Revelation 11:19A, 12:1-6A, 10AB; 2 Corinthians 15:20-27; Luke 1:39-56]Christ has been raised from the dead, the first fruits of those who have fallen asleep. For since death came through man, the resurrection of the dead came also through man. For just as in Adam all die, so too in Christ shall all be brought to life, but each one in proper order......
There seems to be a liturgical observance for just about everything we know or can think of about the Blessed Virgin Mary, from her conception (The Immaculate Conception) right up to the various apparitions that are attributed to her (Lourdes, Fatima, Guadalupe, etc.). Some of these observances are considered more important and solemn than others because of their connection with matters of faith: the Immaculate Conception (Dec. 8) and the Assumption (Aug. 15) are both holy days of obligation in the church in the United States (not everywhere in the world, however). Thus her earthly birth and death are subjects of greater importance dogmatically and liturgically. We celebrate a birthday (Sept. 8), her pregnancy (the Annunciation, March 25), her trials and sorrows (Our Lady of Sorrows, Sept. 16), her intervention in a time of crisis (Our Lady of the Rosary) and many others. But today we celebrate one of the two "big" ones - her "assumption" into heaven after her death (also celebrated as her "Dormition!"). The passage from St. Paul, quoted above, is important in all of this to remind us of the larger context. Mary's life is to be understood in the light of Jesus' life, death and resurrection. Her "assumption" is made possible by Jesus' accomplishment. Some folks might want to view this as a kind of "short cut" to heaven, but the best angle might be to consider her relationship to Christ which is then ratified by her life after death - something that is our goal as well. She is very special but, as the Second Vatican Council makes clear, we are to see her as a model disciple and emulate her example so that we may share the same destiny that she has. The celebration of this feast is a reminder of good things yet to come which we should strive for. Mary shows the way. AMEN
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