On December 8 we celebrated the Feast of the Immaculate Conception of Mary. When I worked in parish ministry, some people thought of this feast as the conception of Jesus. No, this feast celebrates the conception of Mary in her mother’s womb. By God’s special privilege to Mary and to us, Mary was conceived without original sin.
It is fitting that this feast of Mary occurs during the Season of Advent. As we celebrate the coming of Jesus into our lives during Advent, we remember his mother Mary and the role she played in our salvation. Mary’s conception was the heralding of our redemption. God’s plan of salvation had begun in Mary.
Many Catholics, and I as well, have always had a devotion to Mary. At the wedding feast at Cana in John’s Gospel Mary says, “Do what he tells you”. Mary always points to her son, Jesus.
How did Jesus appear to the people? He came as prophet, priest and king. He told us about God and showed us God, his Father. He reached out to the suffering and healed the sick. He brought about God’s reign in the hearts of the people. People were changed by an encounter with Jesus.
Do you think Jesus’ mission continues today in us? Advent is a good time to think about how we also reveal God to others. How do we share God’s love for them? We reach out to help others; we pray for the suffering in our world in hopes of healing. Like Mary, putting God first in our lives can bring us peace. This peace will naturally flow out to others too. Perhaps a chain reaction will be started with those around us.
Whatever way we choose this year to celebrate Advent, we hope it will bring Christ to birth in each of us.
