FEAST OF THE NATIVITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY, SEPTEMBER 08, 2022
MASS READINGS
A Gospel according to Mt 1:18-23
This is how the birth of Jesus Christ came about. When his mother Mary was betrothed to Joseph, but before they lived together, she was found with child through the Holy Spirit. Joseph her husband, since he was a righteous man, yet unwilling to expose her to shame, decided to divorce her quietly. Such was his intention when, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, “Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary your wife into your home. For it is through the Holy Spirit that this child has been conceived in her. She will bear a son and you are to name him Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.” All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had said through the prophet:
Behold, the virgin shall be with child and bear a son, and they shall name him Emmanuel,
which means “God is with us.”
REFLECTION
"Do not be afraid to take Mary your wife into your home."
What a beautiful celebration of the birthday of the Mother of Jesus. This feast dates back to at least the 6th century. There are 3 birthdays celebrated in the Liturgical Year: Jesus on December 25th, John the Baptist on June 24th, and the Blessed Virgin on September 8th. (1)
Her parents were Joaquim and Anna. Tradition tells us that they were an older barren couple. That kept offering prayer, scarifies until Anna was able to conceive and eventually give birth to Mary. (2)
Can you imagine the happiness of her parents, Anna and Joaquim when Our Blessed Mother was born? Or that longing that was finally fulfilled?
What does it means for us that Mary entered the world? I do have to stop and think on how she was the reason Our Lord was born. That she and St. Joseph raised Him and kept Him safe while growing up. That Jesus gave her to us when He was crucified.
Mary took care of her Son and loved Him with all her heart. If we welcome her into our homes, into our lives, she can also look for the well being and our spiritual safety. Which loving mother doesn't wishes the best for her children? And the best that can happen to us is to be with Jesus in Heaven. She can help us get to her Son if we ask her to.
Thank you Blessed Mother for your love for us!
Happy Birthday Momma Mary!!!
Sources:
(1) https://www.catholicculture.org/commentary/nativity-blessed-virgin-mary-happy-birthday-to-our-lady/
(2) https://www.catholiccompany.com/magazine/sts-joachim-anne-patron-saints-of-grandparents/
