The WORD in Other Words by Fr Jonathan Letada SVD (Philippines)
Solemnity of the Assumption of the Blessed Mother Mary, Rev 12:1-6a, 10ab, 1 Cor 15:20-27, Lk 1:39-58
What is the meaning and significance of the Assumption of Mary in our Christian life? Pope Francis shared this enlightening reflection.
First, Mary‘s Assumption does not mean that she is detached from us. Rather, she accompanies us and struggles with us. She is our hope in our struggle between good and evil.
Secondly, it confirms to us the theological virtue of hope and, at the same time, encourages us to look toward heaven as the goal.
And finally, the Assumption of Mary is a revelation of God‘s graciousness, of his gift of divine life and the joy of heaven for all of us.
Do you dream of heaven‘? Do you desire heaven‘?
This is the core message of the gospel today, the Magnificat: God has blessed us with heaven. Mary is proclaiming here not only her joy of blessedness but also of the greatest gift of God to the entire humanity: the gift of heaven. We are all destined for heaven. This is God‘s gift of mercy. He wants us to be with him in heaven.
