Following in the Footsteps of Mary, the Mother of God

 The Octave Day of Christmas: Solemnity of the Blessed Virgin Mary, the Mother of God: January 01, 2023

Mass Readings: Numbers 6:22-27; Psalm 67:2-3, 5, 6, 8; Galatians 4:4-7; Luke 2:16-21

To listen to my audio-video reflections via YouTube, please click here: https://youtu.be/92Z8JYVUmwI

Today is the 1st day of the year 2023! On this special day of the year, we celebrate the Solemnity of the Blessed Virgin Mary, the Mother of God. It is a Catholic feast day that is celebrated on January 1st. This feast day honors Mary, the mother of Jesus, and her role as the mother of God. Mary is a central figure in Christianity and is revered as a woman of very special significance by Catholics and many other Christian denominations. The celebration of this feast day dates back to the 4th century and was established by Pope Julius I as a way to reaffirm the belief in the divinity of Jesus Christ. The celebration of this feast day is a way for Catholics to honor Mary and recognize her important role in the life and ministry of Jesus. It is also a time to reflect on Mary's own faith and devotion to God, and to draw inspiration from her example.

1. Role of Mother Mary in the public ministry of Jesus

Mary played a powerful role in the public ministry of Jesus, although the accounts of her involvement in the Gospels are limited. According to the New Testament, Mary was present at the beginning of Jesus' ministry and present at the wedding in Cana where Jesus performed his first miracle. After this, there is little mention of Mary in the Gospels in relation to Jesus' public ministry. However, it is likely that Mary was an important source of support and encouragement for Jesus as he carried out his ministry and preached throughout Galilee and Judea. Mary was also present at the Crucifixion of Jesus, standing by his side as he died on the cross.

In the Catholic tradition, Mary is considered to be the mother of God and is revered as a Holy Woman. She is depicted as a model of faith, devotion, and humility, and is revered for her role in the life and ministry of Jesus. Catholics and other Christians pray to Mary and seek her intercession, believing that she has a special role in the spiritual life of believers. Perhaps we can take Mary as our inspiration and encouragement for this New Year that we begin today. So that her qualities like integrity and commitment, compassion, and conciliation become part of our lives as well. 

2. Blessed Virgin Mary, the Mother of God ever Mother to us

In Catholic and Orthodox traditions, Mary is honored as the Mother of God because her son Jesus is both fully human and fully divine. This belief is rooted in the doctrine of the Incarnation, which teaches that Jesus, the second person of the Holy Trinity, took on human nature and was born of the Virgin Mary while remaining fully divine. As such, Mary is considered to be the mother of God because she is the mother of Jesus, who is God incarnate. She is also often depicted as a symbol of maternal love and protection.  

St Paul in his letter to the Galatians writes so well about how important the figure of Mary in our Salvation history. He describes the purpose and reason for Jesus' coming into the world. The fullness of time refers to the moment when God deemed it the right time to send his Son, Jesus, into the world. Jesus was born of a woman, Mary, and was born under the law as a Jew, subject to the laws and customs of Judaism. Jesus came to ransom, or redeem, those who were under the law, meaning that he came to rescue people from their sin and the consequences of sin, which is separation from God. Through Jesus' death and resurrection, people can be reconciled with God and have a right relationship with him. As a result, we can receive adoption as sons and daughters, meaning that we are welcomed into God's family as his beloved children and heirs to his kingdom (Galatians 4:4-7) That is why the role of Mother Mary in the life and history of Christians is unbreakable. She remains always our Mother as well.

3. Trusting in God's plan just like Mary and Joseph

Luke 2:16-21 tells the story of the birth of Jesus and the visit of the shepherds to the stable where he was born. In this passage, we see that the birth of Jesus was a significant event that was announced to the world by an angel. The shepherds, who were tending their flocks in the fields, were the first to receive the news of Jesus' birth and they hurried to see him. The birth of Jesus was a powerful event that was announced to the world by an angel. This reminds us that Jesus' birth was not just a human event, but also a divine one. It was an event that was ordained by God and was a fulfillment of ancient prophecies. 

Mary and Joseph were humble and obedient to God's plan for their lives. Despite the challenges and difficulties they faced, they trusted in God and followed his plan for them. This, indeed, is a call to us to trust in God's plan for our own lives and to be obedient to His will.

The shepherds were the first to receive the news of Jesus' birth. This may be seen as symbolizing that Jesus came to bring salvation to all people, regardless of their social status or background. The shepherds' response to the news of Jesus' birth was one of awe and wonder. They immediately left their flocks and went to see the newborn savior. This must awaken in us a sense that we, too, should respond to the news of Jesus' birth with awe and wonder, and seek to encounter him in our own lives. A Christian without a sense of awe and wonder is like a person eating chocolates without sugar!

How shall we start the new year 2023? A few thoughts for you!

The start of a new year can be a time for reflection, renewal, and setting intentions for the coming year. Here are a few suggestions for spiritual thoughts and practices that you might consider as you begin the new year:

1. Reflect on the past year: Take some time to think about the events, experiences, and challenges of the past year. Consider what you have learned and how you have grown.
2. Set intentions for the new year: What do you want to focus on or achieve in the coming year? Consider setting some specific goals or intentions that align with your values and priorities.
3. Practice gratitude: Take time each day to reflect on the things you are grateful for. This can help shift your focus to the positive aspects of your life and cultivate an attitude of gratitude.
4. Engage in spiritual practices: Consider incorporating some spiritual practices into your daily routine, such as prayer, meditation, or reading spiritual texts. These practices can help you connect with your inner self and find a sense of peace and purpose.
5. Seek connection with others: Building and maintaining strong relationships is an important aspect of spiritual growth. Take time to connect with friends and loved ones, and seek out opportunities to be of service to others.

Prayer: 

Dear God,

As we begin this new year, we come to you with open hearts and minds, ready to receive your blessings and guidance. We thank you for the many ways you have blessed us in the past year, and we ask for your continued guidance and protection in the year ahead.

Help us to set our minds and hearts on you, and to seek your will in all that we do. Give us the strength and courage to face the challenges that may come our way, and the wisdom to make decisions that honor you.

We pray for peace, joy, and prosperity for all people, and for your protection and guidance for our families, communities and loved ones. We trust in your goodness and your plan for our lives, and we give you all the praise and honor that is due to you.  In your holy Name, we pray, Amen.

I wish you a very happy, wonderful, and prosperous New Year 2023. 

- Olvin Veigas, SJ

December 29, 2021