Mary, Mother of God

Dear friends in Christ,

On Friday, January 1st, the Church celebrates the Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God. This holy day of obligation celebrates the life of Mary in the life of Christ: that of being His mother. The term Mother of God harkens back to a term the Church first clarified in the fifth century at the Council of Ephesus. Mary just is not the mother of the human nature of Jesus, but also of the divine nature, since they are inseparable.

It is appropriate that the Church celebrates this solemnity when it does. It not only celebrates it on the first day of the New Year, but also a week after Christmas. On Christmas, we celebrate the birth of Jesus, and on the solemnity of Mary, Mother of God, we celebrate Mary as the Mother of God, Jesus Christ.

We also look forward to the new year as we celebrate this feast. We look to Mary as an example of love and fidelity; we look to her as a perfect example of motherhood and obedience to God the Father; and, we look to her as someone to imitate in our lives. How do we imitate Mary? We listen to God, and we follow His will for us. Was it not Mary who said "Let it be done according to your word" when Gabriel came to her, telling her about the birth of Jesus, and who Jesus was?

Mary is the perfect example for us to follow God most perfectly. We must listen to our hearts. What is God asking of you? How can you best follow His will? God calls each of us, like He called Mary. Let us make a resolution this year to be like Mary, following the will of God in all things, and listening to His will for us.

May you remain close to the Sacred Heart of Jesus through the Immaculate Heart of Mary.