Today’s Readings:
Psalm 45:10-12,16
1 Corinthians 15:20-26;
Luke 1:39-56
Apocalypse 11:19,12:1-6,10
Easter ranks higher than Christmas in the Catholic calendar. This is because Jesus’ death and resurrection is far more glorious than His birth. By dying, He destroyed death and by rising, He restored us to eternal life. Mary’s Assumption picks up from the reality of the Resurrection as the first-fruit of what Christ wants to do in our lives—to share His glory with us. Assumption is our belief that “The blessed Virgin Mary did not experience bodily decay. By God’s grace, she triumphed over death and dwells in heavenly glory, following the example of her only Son, Jesus Christ.” This is because Mary is first among those to whom Jesus promises resurrection (1 Corinthians 15:23).
Mary’s bodily resurrection is not the only case of this phenomenon. There is the case of Enoch (Genesis 5:24) and Elijah who went into heaven in a chariot of fire (2 Kings 2:11). The point of the Assumption is that Mary is inseparably united to her Son because of her faith in Him (“Blessed is she who believed that the promise made her by the Lord would be fulfilled”, Luke 1:47). This feast reminds us that we belong to God and as Christ’s followers, we are made for heavenly glory (Romans 8:30 says, we are predestined, called, justified and shall be glorified in heaven). How do we achieve this glory? By following the footsteps of Christ (“Deny yourself, and take up your cross daily, and follow me, Luke 9:23-25). Every day of our life is meant to be lived in union with Christ —people must recognise Christ in your actions. If they cannot see it, you are denying Him (Matthew 10:33). Where should you make Christ known? Wherever we find ourselves. Don’t let your insecurities make you a puppet or coward before others. Be bold always.
What are the challenges to our quest for glory? A culture of sin and death, of greed and selfishness, of lies and half-truths, one that worships money and sex, that looks for happiness in fame and fortune. What shall it profit you to gain the world and lose your soul (Mark 8:36)? Save your fear and worship for God who can destroy body and soul in hell (Matthew 10:28). Flee from the wrong crowd. Flee the occasions of sin. Flee misinformation and ignorance. Stop excusing your faults and bragging about your sins (weep rather for them and repent!). Seek healing for your trauma, go to confession and the Eucharist regularly. Be chaste in mind and body. Stay humble and God will lift you higher.
JUDE-MARY OWOH
To surrender your life to Christ, say this prayer aloud. “Father, I acknowledge my sin against You. I repent and ask for forgiveness, in the name of Jesus. I surrender to the Lordship of Jesus. By the power of Your Holy Spirit, take control of my heart and lead me in Your path of righteousness. Thank you, Lord.”
If you said the prayer, Congratulations! Prayerfully look for a living church and report to the resident reverend, pastor or priest.
Prayer:
Lord Jesus, make my heart pure and my soul holy.
Lord, cleanse my lips of lies and gossip.
Lord, dwell in me as Your temple.
Lord, use me as Your vessel of honour.
Lord, bring me at last into Your kingdom of glory.
Mary, assumed into heaven, intercede for me. Amen.
Lord, lead us through the trials, tests and trepidations of this life to the glories of heaven. Amen.
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