Solemnity of Mary, the Holy Mother of God

This feast has had several names through history.  Strangely, the title that is most confusing to non-Catholics is the official one.  When we call Mary the Mother of God, we are not saying that she somehow preceded God or is equal to God.  We are simply recognizing that her human son Jesus is also the divine Son of God.

Remember

Today’s Gospel records one simple action of Mary:  to keep these things in her heart.  Even in this simple sentence we are given a good example of being a disciple.  Like Mary, we need to both keep, or remember, what God has done, and to reflect on what we remember.  First,  how much do we remember about what God has done for us?  How well do we know the stories of salvation found in the Scriptures?  Do we recall the prayers God has answered, the guidance given, the love of God that others have shown us, the times God has forgiven us?

Reflect

Second, how much do we reflect on what God has done?  Even if we have many memories of God’s goodness to us, we also need to pray over them and ask ourselves how we have changed because of what God has done.  Do I forgive hurts more readily?  Do I share my faith with my family or friends?  Do I support my parish with my time or offerings?  Let us ask God’s help to imitate Mary by remembering and reflecting.