Solemnity of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary
(Revelation11:19a.12:1-6a.10ab; I Corinthians 15:20-27; Luke 1:39-56)
For some
the dogma of the Assumption of Mary seems like a pious statement with little
practical effect. It assures the
faithful that the mother of Jesus remains close to her son bodily as well as
spiritually in eternal life. But such a
reading sells the doctrine short.
In the
first place, Mary’s body being assumed into heaven asserts the importance of our
bodies. It reassures that our bodies are
not just instruments to inform the mind.
They have an eternal destiny and should be duly cared for. Neglect of “fitness” is as much a fault as neglect
of learning.
The reading
from Revelation today points to a second importance of the Assumption. Evil forces surround us as they threatened
the mother of the Savior. We must take advantage
of the means God has provided to resist them.
Regular use of the sacraments, attention to Scripture, friendship with
the good people in the Church as well as prayer will enable us also to attain
eternal life.
