Of Assumption of Blessed Mary and India’s Independence

Preet Anupam Beck csc –

Readings: Rev 11: 19a; 12: 1-6a, 10ab; 1Cor 15: 20-27; Lk 1: 39-56

Today we celebrate the solemnity of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary. The Feast reminds me of the rewards of being a true listener and doer of the Word of God.

In the first reading, a woman gives birth to a male child, but the child was caught up to God and she received a place for herself that was prepared by God. Mary in her life gave her only Son to
do the will of God. In doing so, she did her part in doing the will of God. Mary was obedient to God, and she is rewarded with the gift of going to heaven and interceding for people.

In the second reading, we are reminded that Christ was raised from the dead. He defeated death and God put all things in subjection under him. Mary was not afraid of death and God showed his grace to her as she was assumed into heaven.

The Gospel reading presents to me the character of Mary which I should follow in my life. The Magnificat is a hymn from the heart of Mary. She experienced the presence of God in her life through her obedience. It invites me to be grateful to God and to be humble and simple in my life. It impels me to be compassionate and to raise the lowly through my efforts. Most importantly it encourages me to be the listener and doer of the Word of God.

Let us pray through the intercession of our Mother for India as she celebrates her Independence Day.