Readings for today’s Solemnity Raise Confusion – But Look They Illustrate God’s Grace & Preparation!
As we celebrate the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary, our readings include the story of the Annunciation, because it highlights Mary’s role as the chosen vessel for God’s plan along with her purity and readiness to become the Mother of Jesus. This emphasizes Church doctrine of her Immaculate Conception. Remember nine months from Dec. 8 – the Immaculate Conception – is her birthday, September 8th – the Nativity of Mary.
In the Gospel on this solemnity, we hear Angel Gabriel announcing her (Luke 1:28-42) as “full of grace; the Lord is with you… Of all women you are the most blessed….”
Mary, unlike Eve, obeyed God with her response to Gabriel, “Behold the handmaid of the Lord, be it done unto me according to thy word.”
Many outside the Church mistakenly believe Catholics worship the Blessed Mother. It is true we do honor her lovingly – deservedly so.
We pray for her intercession through the Hail Mary, the Rosary, novenas, and litanies among others. The Church considers her the greatest teacher and perfect example of true and loving discipleship.
Everything we believe about Mary is in the bible, just as the Hail Mary prayer is contained in the bible.
“Hail, full of grace; the Lord is with you” (Luke 1:28).
Blessed art thou among women (Luke 41-48),
and blessed is the fruit of your womb, Jesus (Luke 42b).
Holy Mary, Mother of God (Luke 1:43),
pray for us sinners (James 5:16),
now and at the hour of our death (James 5: 16-20).
Amen.
