The Assumption of Mary

Dear Friends,

This blog interrupts our season of summer thoughts. It’s fitting to do so, because this Wednesday, the Church celebrates the Feast of the Assumption of Mary. Her life was so attuned to God that her whole being was taken up into heaven. The Church has held this belief from ancient times until today.

In one poetic piece by Paul Stader SJ (d. 1942),

                Thomas saw white roses
                Within the tomb where she had lain.

The British biblical scholar, Reginald Fuller (d.2011), applauds Mary’s Assumption as part of the poetry of the Christian tradition. Here are his thoughts for us to relish:

                Life lived under the impulse of God is eternal.

                Mary’s life was lived under the impulse of God:

                                            God’s light,
                                            God’s breath,
                                            God’s shadow,
                                            God’s energy.

                Mary is without end.

                If we do the same, that is, if we live under the impulse of God,

                                            God’s light,
                                            God’s breath,
                                            God’s shadow,
                                            God’s energy,

                We have a kinship with Mary and a destiny.

                This feast bids us take heart.
                Our lives are not destined for termination.

This week, let us together anticipate the richness of forever.

~ Sister Joan Sobala