Tuesday in Week 10 of Pentecost- The Feast of St. Mary, Mother of Our Lord - Dormition of the Blessed Virgin Mary
Daily Readings
Joshua 8:1-22 Romans 14:1-12 Matthew 26:47-56Morning and Evening Psalms
77 -
78Higher Things Reflection for the day
“For behold, from now on all generations will call me blessed.” (St. Luke 1:48b)
My family and I recently visited a dear friend and parishioner in her college dorm room. We were reminded of just how small they are! The current name is “residence hall,” but the older name, “dormitory,” is more fitting. The original Latin word deals with “sleep.” A dormitory is a place for sleeping. At times it seems that this is about all one can do within these small and confining walls!
The same Latin word gives us the English word “dormition” – “falling asleep.” On this day the Christendom recalls the falling asleep of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Tradition tells us that she traveled with St. John to Ephesus, where he helped build Christ’s Church, and there she fell asleep in Jesus. The Father in heaven brought the mother of His Son to the blessed joys of His eternal mercy.
The dear mother of our Lord prophesied in the Magnificat that “all generations will call me blessed,” (St. Luke 1:48). But again, this was all due to His mercy. This lowly girl’s royal genealogy was about as useful as a fairy tale; there was nothing high and mighty about her. In no way did she deserve to be chosen to be the Mother of God.
But once again, the Rich Master rewards us with unearned wealth! He chose the Blessed Virgin Mother to be His vessel. He selected her to bear the Merciful Steward, bringing His amazing and joyous mercy and love!
On this day we recall a blessed death of a blessed Lady. But this death was not the end for her, any more than it will be for you, dear baptized children of God. As with the still, lifeless body of Jairus’ daughter, regarding His mother, Jesus would tell you, “She is only sleeping.” And in His mercy we know not to laugh with the crowd that heard Him speak to Jairus. Indeed, she is only sleeping – asleep in Jesus, awaiting the resurrection of all flesh.
Because of the Merciful Steward that Mary bore, you don’t need to fear death. He has helped you in remembrance of His mercy. He has conquered sin, death, and the devil for you, that you also may be called “blessed” and joyfully enter into His presence when you fall asleep in Him at last.