Wednesday, December 8, 2021

 Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary

(Genesis 3:9-15.20; Ephesians 1:3-6.11-12; Luke 1:26-38)

Today we celebrate Mary being conceived in the womb of her mother.  The event marks the beginning of the immediate preparation of our redemption.  As a special grace from God, Mary does not inherit whatever DNA disorders the nature of the rest of humanity.  She is not inclined to sin.  She is, as it is said, "immaculately conceived."  All other human beings besides Mary’s son, Jesus, are affected by Adam and Eve’s sin reviewed in today’s first reading.  They disobeyed God’s command not eat from the tree of knowledge of good and bad. 

Today’s second reading reveals part of God’s plan of redemption.  His Son, the same Jesus, has joined us to the Father as adopted children.  Jesus has purified us of the sin of our human parents.  Now we no longer follow our desires but do God’s will.  Mary exemplifies submission to God’s will in today’s gospel.  She is challenged by the request that she undertake an enormous responsibility.  She overcomes her fear to fulfill the request to birth to God’s Son.

We celebrate Mary as the greatest of saints. She never sinned. She showed great courage. And, close to her son, she has proven the most reliable intercessor. We should not hesitate to ask her assistance.  In our becoming sisters and brothers of Jesus through faith, we receive Mary as our mother.

No comments: