January 1, 2022: Mary the Mother of God
January 1, 2022: Mary the Mother of God
Have you ever asked your mother about the circumstances surrounding your own birth? Did she ever tell you when you first smiled back at her as an infant? Has she shared with you what kind of blessing you brought to her and her whole family? Today is the (Vigil of the) 8th day after December 25, and the Church celebrates the Solemnity of Mary, the Mother of God. God blessed the whole world with His Son made flesh through the Blessed Mother.
Imagine the first time she beheld the face of her Christ Child after his birth. Perhaps she remembered the wondrous message of the Archangel Gabriel to her at the Annunciation. And now in front of her were poor shepherds who excitedly relayed the message they received from an angel who appeared to them saying, “Behold I proclaim to you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. For today in the city of David a savior has been born for you who is Messiah and Lord… Glory to God in the highest and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.” As she heard this good news, perhaps her cousin’s words echoed in her heart, “Most blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb… Blessed are you who believed that what was spoken to you by the Lord would be fulfilled.” Indeed, the Blessed Mother was blessed, and the whole world was blessed!
As the whole world steps into a new year, most are hoping for joyful news. Many hope that the excitement and reverie of the New Year’s celebration will drown out the disappointments of the past and usher in something new and positive. We Christians have a reason for joy that no negative circumstances nor unexpected events can take away. “For unto us a Child is born, unto us a Son is given… and His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” (Isa 9:6)
Like the Blessed Mother, we are invited to discover the hidden joy of Christ’s birth and his abiding presence in our lives through pondering in the stillness of our prayers. Like the poor shepherds, we are to express the joy of His birth by sharing the good news. Too often our surroundings are polluted by the way people speak and act uncharitably toward others. Yet the Father has chosen each of us to be bearers of God’s blessing for others by the witness of our faith and love in action.
While we cannot see what joys or sorrows await us this new year, like our Heavenly Mother we carry with us the riches of God’s grace and blessing. From the Blessed Mother we learn to surrender to God's will in all things. From her we learn to trust even when all hope seems gone. From her we learn to love Christ her Son and the Son of God. If you ever feel distressed during your day--illness, loss of loved one, trouble with children — call upon Blessed Mother — just say this simple prayer: 'Mary, Mother of Jesus, please be a mother to me now. Lead me to Jesus.' -Fr. Yi
