The well-known prayer, "Litany of the Blessed Virgin," addresses Mary as the "cause of our joy." This title of Mary is most appropriate for today's feast of her Assumption into heaven.
Mary's entire being found joy in the Lord (Lk 1:46). She spread that joy to others, even the pre-born baby John, who leapt "for joy" at the sound of Mary's voice as she carried Jesus into their home in her womb (Lk 1:44). Mary was also present in the upper room at Pentecost (see Acts 1:14ff) and surely exulted with joy as her Spouse, the Holy Spirit, filled the apostles, who then brought three thousand people into the Church.
Finally, Mary "was taken up body and soul into heavenly glory" (Catechism, 966). "She already shares in the glory of her Son's Resurrection, anticipating the resurrection of all members of His Body" (Catechism, 974). She has been "exalted by the Lord as Queen over all things, so that she might be the more fully conformed to her Son" (Catechism, 966). Her assumption is a sign of sure hope (Lumen Gentium, 68, Vatican II) that Jesus will raise us up to be with Him forever.
The Lord in His word commands us to rejoice with Mary as she is honored today. Since Mary "is honored, all the members share [her] joy" (1 Cor 12:26). We are to "rejoice with" her (Rm 12:15). Mary would be the first to proclaim: "Rejoice in the Lord always! I say it again. Rejoice!" (Phil 4:4) Rejoice with Mary.
| PRAYER: | Holy Spirit, some Christians respond to the joy of Your spouse, Mary, with disdain. Convert their frowns into smiles of joy today. |
| PROMISE: | "God's temple in heaven opened and in the temple could be seen the ark of His covenant." –Rv 11:19 |
| PRAISE: | Praise You, Risen Jesus, Joy of Your mother's heart! |
Reprinted with permission from Presentation Ministries, a lay association of the Catholic Church that focuses on evangelization and discipleship through Bible teaching, daily Mass, the charisms of the Holy Spirit, and Small Christian Community. Their ministries include:
· One Bread, One Body
· Daily Bread Radio Program
· Annual Bible Institute
· Discipleship Retreats
· Guadalupe Bible College