Daily Reflection Memorial of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of the Church

It may be a little late, but today could be called “Mother’s Day” for the church. We celebrate the “Memorial for the Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of the Church.” The three scripture passages for today – Genesis, Psalm 87, and St. John’s Gospel – plus the three prayers of the Mass, all refer to a mother’s role in creation and salvation. 

In the gospel Jesus addresses his mother. Amidst the stark brutality of the crucifixion on Calvary, St. John weaves in a tender moment. Jesus calls to Mary, “Woman, behold your son.” And then to the disciple, John, he says, “Son, behold your mother.” From then on John cared for Mary. 

From the very beginning when Mary consented to be the Mother of God, she remained focused on her divine calling. And so the Word of God dwelt within her and came to life in the world. Because of her fidelity, she renewed the life of humanity. 

Contrast her story with that of the woman in the first passage. She is Eve, also known as “The Mother of all the living.” Together with Adam they were the first parents of the human race. God chose them, but they turned away from God as they listened to the lies of Satan’s serpent. It is ironic that God raised Adam and Eve above the animals and gave these two authority over them. This is shown in Adam naming all the animals. Yet Eve lowers herself to turn away from God while trusting the snake. 

Here we find the essence of sin. It is a distraction, diverting us from our true path of fulfillment which is to be in union with God. Mary, our Mother, shows us the true path to God by remaining focused and faithful.