Greatness Redefined: Unveiling the Paradox of the Kingdom of God. (Matthew 11:11–15).

Jesus’ words in Matthew 11:11–15 come in the midst of a dialogue about John the Baptist’s role in salvation history. John had sent messengers from prison to confirm whether Jesus was the promised Messiah. In response, Jesus not only affirmed His messianic identity but also exalted John’s crucial role in preparing the way for the Kingdom of God. This passage draws our attention to John as the bridge between the Old Covenant and the New, and to the radical nature of the Kingdom Jesus inaugurates.

The Greatest Born of Women.

The teaching of Jesus in Matthew 11:11 is profound and layered, touching on themes of greatness, the nature of the Kingdom of Heaven, and the transformative power of grace. To fully grasp the meaning, let’s explore the Greek meanings of key terms and their theological significance.

“Born of Women” (γεννητοῖς γυναικῶν, gennētois gynaikōn): This phrase refers to all humans born naturally, emphasizing human limitation and the natural order. John the Baptist is highlighted as the greatest in this category, underscoring his unparalleled role in preparing the way for Jesus. However, the comparison to those in the Kingdom of Heaven introduces a shift from the natural to the supernatural order.

“Greater” (μείζων, meizōn): The term meizōn means “greater”in terms of rank, role, or status. Jesus acknowledges John’s greatness, particularly his prophetic mission as the forerunner of the Messiah. Yet, this greatness is still tied to the old covenant and the promises of the Law and Prophets.

“Least” (μικρότερος, mikroteros): The word mikroteros can mean “least” in terms of size, significance, or rank. In this context, it likely refers to someone who might seem insignificant or unimportant in worldly terms but is part of the Kingdom of Heaven. This juxtaposition highlights the radical values of the Kingdom, where greatness is redefined.

“Kingdom of Heaven” (βασιλεία τῶν οὐρανῶν, basileia tōn ouranōn): The basileia tōn ouranōn refers to the reign or rule of God, inaugurated by Jesus. It is both a present reality manifested by the great works of Jesus and a future fulfillment. Entrance into this Kingdom is not based on earthly merit but on the transformative work of grace.

So, what is the Meaning of Jesus' Teaching?

John’s Greatness in the Old Covenant: Jesus acknowledges John the Baptist as the greatest among those born of women. This greatness is tied to John’s unique role as the culmination of the prophetic tradition. He is the “Elijah who was to come” (v. 14), bridging the gap between the old covenant and the new. However, John’s mission is preparatory; he points to the Kingdom but does not fully participate in its inaugurated reality through Christ.

The Superiority of the Kingdom of Heaven: Jesus introduces a profound paradox: even the least in the Kingdom of Heaven is greater than John. This is not to diminish John but to highlight the transformative power of God’s grace. Those who belong to the Kingdom experience a new reality of intimacy with God through Jesus Christ. They are not merely observers of the promises but participants in their fulfillment.

Who Is the Least in the Kingdom? The “least” in the Kingdom could refer to:

• Those who seem insignificant by worldly standards but are exalted in God’s eyes (cf. Matthew 20:16, “The last will be first”).
• The humble and contrite who embrace the gift of salvation (cf. Matthew 5:3, “Blessed are the poor in spirit”).
• Jesus Himself, who took the form of a servant and became “least” for our sake (cf. Philippians 2:6-8).

By this radical inversion, Jesus teaches that true greatness is not measured by human standards but by participation in the divine life of the Kingdom.

Greatness Redefined: This teaching challenges human notions of greatness. John represents the pinnacle of the old order, but even the least in the Kingdom benefits from the fullness of grace brought by Jesus. The greatness of the Kingdom lies in the new relationship with God through Christ, marked by forgiveness, transformation, and the indwelling of the Holy Spirit.

To be “greater”in the Kingdom does not mean achieving more in human terms but living in the reality of God’s reign, which overturns worldly hierarchies. It reminds us that humility and dependence on God are the true paths to greatness. Humanity is definitively reconciled with God not by the blood of animal, but by the sacrificial death of Jesus on the Cross.

What is the Message for Us today?

Jesus’ words call us to reflect on where we find our identity and greatness. Are we striving for recognition in earthly terms, or are we embracing the humility and grace of the Kingdom? This passage invites us to rejoice in the gift of being part of God’s Kingdom, understand it as a reality available to all who respond to Jesus with faith and openness.

In essence, the least in the Kingdom is anyone who humbly acknowledges their dependence on God and receives His transformative grace. In the eyes of the world, they may be small, but in God’s Kingdom, they are truly great.

John the Baptist is a prophet with a singular task: to prepare the people’s hearts for the Messiah. His greatness lies in his faithfulness, his courage in calling people to repentance, and his humility in pointing away from himself to the Lamb of God. We find in him one of essential qualities of Prophets of God: they are God-centered and not self-centered.

Yet, immediately after declaring John’s greatness, Jesus makes a startling statement: “Amen, I say to you, among those born of women there has been none greater than John the Baptist…” This reveals a profound truth about the Kingdom of God, it is not about earthly status, merit, or achievement but about grace. Entry into the Kingdom is a gift, and even the humblest member of this new reality, united with Christ, shares in a greatness that surpasses the Old Covenant.

The Violence of the Kingdom

The next statement about the Kingdom being “subjected to violence” is both mysterious and powerful. Jesus paints a picture of the Kingdom as something dynamic, not passive. From John’s time, people have been forcefully pressing into it, some through desperate longing for salvation, others with opposition and hostility.

On one hand, this “violence” represents the intensity of human desire for God. Those who recognize their need for redemption pursue the Kingdom with an urgency that breaks through barriers of sin, fear, and doubt. This is the holy “violence” of faith, where hearts cry out to God with an unrelenting thirst for grace and truth.

On the other hand, the Kingdom faces opposition. The religious authorities resisted John and Jesus because the Kingdom challenged their systems of power and control. Even today, the forces of darkness strive to undermine God’s work. Yet, the Kingdom is unshakable, advancing through the courage of those who trust in the power of God.

John as the New Elijah

Jesus then reveals an astonishing truth: John is the Elijah who was to come. Elijah, the fiery prophet of the Old Testament, was expected to return as a forerunner of the Messiah (Malachi 4:5-6). By identifying John as Elijah, Jesus confirms that the long-awaited time of fulfillment has arrived. The promises of the Law and the Prophets converge in John’s ministry and find their culmination in Christ.

John’s role is one of selfless preparation. Like Elijah, he calls people to repentance, turning their hearts back to God. Yet, his mission is also one of relinquishment. He must decrease so that Christ may increase. This is a call not just for John but for all of us, to prepare the way for Jesus in our lives and in the world, stepping aside so that His light may shine.

“Whoever Has Ears, Let Them Hear”

This phrase, often used by Jesus, is a call to spiritual attentiveness. The message of the Kingdom requires not just hearing with our ears but understanding with our hearts. The truths Jesus reveals are profound and transformative, but they demand openness and faith.

What does this passage mean for us today? First, it challenges us to recognize the greatness of the Kingdom we are called to enter. If John, the greatest of the prophets, stands outside the fullness of the Kingdom, how much more should we treasure the grace of being in Christ, the King?

Second, it invites us to embrace the “violence” of the Kingdom, not with weapons of war, but with the relentless pursuit of God’s presence. Faith is not passive; it is active, dynamic, and sometimes costly. It requires breaking through the obstacles of sin, doubt, and fear to lay hold of the life God offers.

Third, it reminds us of our mission as forerunners of Christ in the world. Like John, we are called to prepare the way for the Lord in the hearts of others. This requires humility, courage, and a willingness to decrease so that Christ may increase in and through us.

Finally, it offers a challenge: “Whoever has ears, let them hear.” Are we truly listening to Jesus’ words? Do we recognize the urgency of His call to participate in the Kingdom? Are we prepared to surrender our own agendas and embrace the radical life of discipleship?

Today’s Gospel invites us to pursue God with all our hearts, to stand firm in the face of opposition, and to prepare the way for Christ in our lives and in the world. May we, like John, be faithful messengers of God’s grace and tireless seekers of His Kingdom. And may we have ears to hear the voice of Jesus, calling us to the fullness of life in Him, Amen.🙏🙏🙏

 

Rest for the Weary: Embracing the Gentle Call of Christ. Mt.11:28-30.

“Come to me, all you who labor and are burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am meek and humble of heart; and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden light.”

Life is often a journey filled with heavy burdens: personal struggles, the weight of responsibilities, relational crises, the search for meaning life, etc. In today’s Gospel, Jesus extends an invitation that echoes deeply with our human longing for peace and rest. His words are not merely a call to ease physical exhaustion but a profound assurance of spiritual and emotional solace.

Imagine the crowd listening to Him. Among them were laborers, the downtrodden, and the oppressed, carrying the weight of societal expectations and religious obligations. To these, Jesus says, “Come to me.” It is an open invitation, free of conditions, extended to all who feel overwhelmed. It is as if He is reaching out His arms to embrace every pain, every worry, and every fear that weighs us down.

The Yoke of Jesus

In ancient times, a yoke was used to bind two animals together to plow a field. It symbolizes partnership, direction, and work. When Jesus asks us to take His yoke, He is not adding to our burdens; instead, He offers to share the load. His yoke is not one of oppression or control but of grace and love. It’s a call to walk alongside Him, to let Him guide our steps and carry the weight we cannot bear alone.

But why does He ask us to take His yoke instead of removing all burdens entirely? It’s because true rest is not found in escaping challenges but in facing them with the strength and peace that comes from Christ. By accepting His yoke, we are invited into a relationship of trust and surrender, where His meekness and humility transform our struggles into opportunities for growth and healing.

Learning from Jesus

“Learn from me, for I am meek and humble of heart.” Jesus, the Son of God, chooses meekness and humility as His defining traits. In contrast with world’s values such as power and self-assertion, He teaches us the beauty of gentleness and selflessness. Meekness is not weakness; it is strength under control, a quiet confidence rooted in God’s love. Humility is the soil in which grace flourishes, allowing us to see ourselves and others through God’s eyes.

 

Through His life, Jesus shows us that humility brings freedom. It frees us from the exhausting need to prove ourselves, to carry the weight of pride, and to compete for validation. His humility invites us to rest in the knowledge that we are deeply loved, just as we are.

Finding Rest for the Soul

The rest Jesus offers is not a fleeting escape but a deep and abiding peace. It is the peace of knowing that our lives are held in the hands of a loving Savior. When we align ourselves with Him, our burdens become lighter because we no longer carry them alone. The restless striving for control and perfection is replaced by the assurance of His grace and the promise of His presence.

This rest does not mean the absence of challenges but the presence of hope, even in the midst of them. It is the quiet confidence that, no matter how heavy the burden, His love is greater, His strength is sufficient, and His peace surpasses all understanding.

A Personal Invitation

Today, Jesus stands before us with the same invitation. Whatever burden you carry, be it fear, regret, loss, or uncertainty about future, personal projects, He says, “Come to me.” Just three words! He does not promise to remove all struggles, but He offers something greater: Himself. He is the rest your soul longs for, the peace your heart seeks, and the strength your spirit needs.

Jesus’ words are a gentle reminder: You are not alone. Allow Him to help you in caring your yoke, walk with Him, and let Him lead you into the quiet pastures of His love. There, you will find the rest your soul has always longed for.

 

From Eden to Calvary: Advent and the Triumph of God’s Plan. (Genesis 3:9-15,20)

 

Introduction : The Longing for Redemption

Dear brothers and sisters in Christ,

Advent is a season of expectation and hope, a time to prepare our hearts for the coming of our Savior. Today, we turn to the first pages of Scripture, where we encounter the beginning of God’s plan to redeem humanity. In Genesis 3:15, often called the Protoevangelium or “First Gospel,” we find both judgment and salvation, a promise that reaches its fulfillment in Jesus Christ.

The Tragedy of the Fall

In the Garden of Eden, we witness humanity's first sin—a choice to listen to the voice of the serpent rather than the voice of God. Adam and Eve, who once walked with God in perfect harmony, now hide in fear and shame.

In verse 9, we read: “But the LORD God called to the man, 'Where are you?” The Hebrew word for “called” (qara, קָרָא) signifies an invitation rather than an interrogation. The question “Where are you?” (ayyekah, אַיֶּכָּה) is profoundly existential. God is not seeking Adam’s physical location but inviting him to acknowledge his spiritual and moral state.

God, in His mercy, is seeking reconciliation, to re-establish a broken relationship. Today, God addresses the same question to each of us: “Where am I on this second week of Advent?” Are we hiding, ashamed of our sins, afraid of being fully seen by God? Advent invites us to step out of the shadows and return to the God who never stops seeking us.

Adam and Eve’s Response

In verses 10–13, Adam admits his fear and nakedness, revealing his shame and alienation from God. The Hebrew word for naked ('erom, עֵרוֹם) contrasts with the innocence described in Genesis 2:25, where Adam and Eve were unashamed in their nakedness. Now, both shift blame, Adam blames Eve, and Eve blames the serpent. This reveals the fracturing of relationships, not only with God but also with each other and creation.

Since that tragic moment, human relationships continue to suffer, blame, distrust, and power struggles abound. Yet even amid this brokenness, God’s voice calls out, offering a path to healing.

The Promise in the Curse

In verse 14, the serpent (Satan’s instrument) is cursed above all creatures. Its crawling and dust-eating symbolize humiliation and subjugation. In verse 15, God announces a pivotal promise:

“I will put enmity between you and the woman, between your offspring and hers. He will strike at your head while you strike at his heel.”

The Hebrew word for “enmity” ('ebah, אֵיבָה) conveys intense hostility, a cosmic struggle between good and evil, between God’s purposes and the devil’s rebellion. In Ephesians 6:12 St. Paul says: “For we are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places.”

Verse 15 of Genesis 3 points directly to Jesus Christ, born of the Virgin Mary, who triumphs over sin and death through His cross and resurrection. The serpent strikes at His heel, a foretelling of Christ’s suffering on the cross, but the Redeemer crushes the serpent’s head, securing victory for us.

Advent reminds us that the cradle in Bethlehem leads to the cross at Calvary, and through the cross, to the empty tomb.

A Call to Hope and Trust

Adam names his wife Eve, meaning “the mother of all the living,” expressing hope even amid sin and brokenness. God’s plans for humanity are always for restoration, not destruction.

In Christian theology, Mary, the mother of Jesus, is seen as the “woman” whose offspring defeats the serpent. Mary’s unique role as the bearer of the Redeemer underscores her cooperation in God’s plan. The Church Fathers also saw this “woman” as a collective image of God’s people, first Israel, then the Church, called to bring forth Christ into the world.

This Advent, we too are called to embrace hope. The world often feels like a garden overrun by the serpent's lies, ideologies, violence, division, and despair. But the promise of Genesis 3:15 assures us that the serpent’s power is not the final word. In Christ, we find life, light, and victory.

Our Role in the Redemption Story

The enmity between the serpent and the woman continues in our lives. Each of us is called to reject sin and stand firm in Christ. This means saying no to the serpent’s voice, the subtle temptations that draw us away from God, and saying “yes” to grace, to the voice of the Holy Spirit, following the examples of Jesus and Mary.

Mary, the new Eve, models this for us. Her “yes” to God opened the way for the Savior’s coming. As St. Paul reminds us in Ephesians 1:3-12, we were chosen before the foundation of the world to be holy and blameless before Him.

How is God calling you to say “yes” this Advent? Perhaps it is through forgiving someone who has hurt you, reaching out to someone in need, saying no to double live, or deepening your prayer life. Like Mary, let us open our hearts to God’s will, trusting that His plans are always for our good.

Conclusion: Awaiting the Full Victory

As we light the candles of the Advent wreath, let us remember that we live in the light of Christ’s victory, even as we await its full realization. The promise of Genesis 3:15 was fulfilled in Christ’s first coming and will be completed in His glorious return.

In this season of waiting, may we renew our hope, strengthen our faith, and prepare our hearts to welcome the Savior who comes to make all things new. Let us walk together in the footsteps of Mary, bearing Christ within us, and sharing in the triumph of His redemption.

Amen.

From Jealousy to Peace: The Journey of Humility in Christ’s Kingdom (Wisdom 2:12, 17-20. James 3:16-4:3. Mark 9:30-37).

In today’s readings, we are invited to reflect on the deeper meaning of humility, the power of service, and the importance of aligning ourselves with God's wisdom rather than the values of this world. These passages challenge us to move beyond self-centered ambitions and embrace a life of sacrificial love, even when that path may lead us to suffering, misunderstanding, or rejection. Let us open our hearts to be transformed by God’s wisdom, which always leads to life.

First Reading: Wisdom 2:12, 17-20

In the first reading, the author of Wisdom speaks of the persecution that befalls the righteous man. His goodness is a reproach to those who live in wickedness; his life becomes a silent witness against their selfishness and pride. The righteous man suffers, not because he has done wrong, but because his life of integrity threatens the comfort of those who live by the world’s standards.

This is a prophecy that speaks to Christ, the Righteous One, who would later be rejected and crucified. His pure and humble life unsettled those who clung to power, privilege, and self-importance. It reminds us that living a life of virtue, rooted in God, is not always easy. There will be times when standing up for what is right will bring us opposition or ridicule. The world often mocks the humble and exalts the proud. Yet, this reading calls us to trust that God will ultimately vindicate those who remain faithful, even in the face of suffering.

Reflection:

In our own lives, we too are called to stand for truth, justice, and love, even when it seems costly. Perhaps there are moments when our faith puts us at odds with the people around us—when honesty, forgiveness, or generosity make us seem out of place in a world driven by competition and self-interest. But like the righteous man in Wisdom, we are not alone. God is our strength and defender.

Second Reading: James 3:16-4:3

St. James speaks with piercing clarity about the root of discord and conflicts. He names it: jealousy, ambition, and desire for worldly pleasures. When these things take root in our hearts, they lead to disorder and every kind of evil. But there is another way: the way of God's wisdom, which is “pure, then peaceable, gentle, willing to yield, full of mercy and good fruits.”

Here, James contrasts two kinds of wisdom: the wisdom of the world, which leads to division, and the wisdom of God, which brings peace. Worldly wisdom is often about gaining power, being in control, and achieving success at any cost. But the wisdom from above is about humility, about putting others before ourselves, and seeking the common good rather than personal gain.

Reflection:

How often do we find ourselves caught in jealousy or self-seeking ambition? In moments of frustration or conflict, it’s easy to want to assert ourselves or prove our point. Yet, James reminds us that this path only leads to strife and disharmony. The true path to peace lies in humility, in being willing to listen, to yield, and to seek reconciliation rather than victory.

As we reflect on our own relationships—whether at home, at work, or in our communities—are we pursuing the kind of wisdom that brings peace? Or have we allowed ambition and jealousy to take root, creating divisions and tension?

Gospel: Mark 9:30-37

In the Gospel, we find the disciples arguing about who is the greatest. Jesus, knowing their hearts, turns the world’s idea of greatness upside down. “If anyone wishes to be first, he shall be the last of all and the servant of all.” And to illustrate this, He takes a child—one who, in that society, had no status or importance—and places the child in their midst.

Jesus teaches them that greatness is not about status, power, or recognition. True greatness is found in humble service. The greatest in God’s kingdom are not those who seek to be served, but those who serve others with selfless love. To welcome the least—the child, the poor, the vulnerable—is to welcome Christ Himself.

Reflection:

This teaching challenges our natural instincts. In a world that often celebrates power, success, and self-promotion, Jesus invites us to follow a different path: the path of humility and service. We are called to be like the child Jesus embraced, to live with simplicity and trust, and to serve others without seeking recognition or reward.

Who are the “little ones” in our midst that we are called to serve? Perhaps it’s the person who is overlooked at work, the neighbor who is struggling, or the friend who needs a listening ear. True discipleship is found in these small, often hidden acts of love.

Conclusion: Living with Humility and Service

The readings today call us to embrace a way of life that is radically different from the world's values. Wisdom invites us to live with integrity, even when it leads to hardship. James challenges us to root out jealousy and ambition, and to pursue the peace that comes from humility. And Jesus shows us that true greatness is found in service, in putting others before ourselves.

Let us ask for the grace to live according to God's wisdom, to be humble in heart, and to serve one another with love. In doing so, we follow in the footsteps of Christ, who came not to be served, but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many.

May our lives be a witness to the power of love, the beauty of humility, and the wisdom of service. Amen.🙏🙏🙏

One Heart, One Faith: The Divine Unity We Are Called to Share.

Today, we meditate on the priestly prayer of Jesus for all His followers (Cfr. John 17:20-26. This prayer reveals to us the heart of Jesus. Whoever reads and meditates on this prayer can enter into a heart-to-heart conversation with Jesus. St John invites us to enter into the intimate prayer of Jesus as He stands on the threshold of His Passion, praying not only for His disciples but for all who would come to believe in Him through their message. This passage reveals the profound desire of Christ for His followers to experience a unity that reflects the very nature of the relationship between Him and the Father, a unity so deep, so inseparable, that it becomes the bedrock of our witness to the world.

Jesus prays, “Father, just as you are in me and I am in you, may they also be in us so that the world may believe that you have sent me.” Here, we see the heart of Christ longing for a unity among believers that is not superficial or based merely on shared beliefs, but one that is rooted in the divine love that binds the Father and the Son. This unity is a testimony, a living, breathing proclamation of the truth of who Jesus is. When Christians are united in love, the world sees the reality of Christ's mission; they come to "know" and "believe" in the love that sent Him.

Yet, many of us find ourselves grappling with divisions, misunderstandings, and a lack of unity within the Body of Christ. These struggles often stem from our human frailty, our tendency to prioritize our differences over the love that unites us. But Jesus' prayer reminds us that the love of the Father, which flows through the Son to us, has the power to overcome these barriers. This divine love is not a mere sentiment but an active force that calls us to be "one," as Jesus and the Father are one.

The unity Jesus prays for is not uniformity but a harmony of diversity, where each member of the Body of Christ brings their unique gifts and perspectives, contributing to the wholeness of the Church. In this unity, we find strength; in our love for one another, we find the power to witness to the world.

The call to unity is also a call to humility, to love one another as Christ has loved us, to seek reconciliation where there is division, and to prioritize the mission of the Gospel over our personal preferences. This is not an easy task, especially when faced with the myriad of problems that threaten to divide us. But it is precisely in these struggles that our unity becomes a powerful witness to the world, a sign that the love of God is at work in us, making us one, just as the Father and the Son are one.

As we reflect on this passage, let us ask ourselves: How can we, as followers of Christ, embody the unity for which He prayed? How can we love one another in a way that shows the world that we truly “know” the Father, that we truly “believe” in the Son? May the prayer of Jesus in John 17 inspire us to seek the unity that reflects the very heart of God, so that the world may see and believe in the One who sent Him.

De l'Humilité à la Gloire : l'Assomption de Notre Mère la Vierge Marie et Notre Destin Céleste.

 

Aujourd'hui, alors que nous célébrons la fête de l'Assomption de la Bienheureuse Vierge Marie, nous nous réunissons pour contempler l'un des mystères les plus profonds de notre foi : l'assomption glorieuse de la très Sainte Vierge Marie au ciel. Cette fête est une célébration non seulement du rôle unique de Marie dans l'histoire du salut, mais aussi de l'espérance et de la promesse qui attendent tous ceux qui suivent le Christ. En réfléchissant sur les Écritures, en particulier Apocalypse 12 :1-10 et Luc 1 :39-58, nous sommes invités à entrer plus profondément dans le mystère de la vie de Marie et de sa destinée éternelle.

Apocalypse 12 : 1-10 : La femme vêtue de soleil

Dans le livre de l’Apocalypse, nous rencontrons une vision puissante et symbolique : « Un grand signe apparut dans le ciel, une femme vêtue du soleil, ayant la lune sous ses pieds, et sur sa tête une couronne de douze étoiles » (Apocalypse 12. :1). Cette image de la femme est souvent comprise par l'Église comme représentant Marie, la Mère de Dieu, ainsi que l'Église elle-même.

Marie, vêtue du soleil, reflète le rayonnement de la gloire de Dieu. Elle est la Femme pleine de grâce, remplie du Saint-Esprit. Sa couronne de douze étoiles signifie sa royauté et son rôle de Mère de l'Église, guidant et protégeant les fidèles. La bataille entre la femme et le dragon, représentant les forces du mal, nous rappelle la lutte cosmique entre le bien et le mal, bataille à laquelle Marie participe par son obéissance à Dieu et son rôle dans la naissance du Sauveur. Avec elle et à travers elle Dieu nous donne la victoire en Jésus Christ. Elle a accompli fidèlement cette mission divine parce qu'elle était très humble et totalement obéissante à la volonté de Dieu. Et en elle, Jésus a accompli sa promesse contenue dans Jean 12 :26. Marie n'est pas seulement avec son fils Jésus, mais avec la Sainte Trinité et Dieu l'honore d’une façon unique.

L'assomption de Marie au ciel est l'accomplissement de la vision révélée. Dans son assomption, nous voyons la victoire de la grâce sur le péché, de la vie sur la mort. La vie de Marie a été celle d'un abandon total à la volonté de Dieu, et son assomption est le couronnement de cette vie, un témoignage de la victoire de l'amour et de la miséricorde de Dieu. Lorsque Marie est élevée au Ciel, elle devient pour nous tous un signe d’espérance, un rappel que le Ciel est notre véritable demeure et que nos vies aussi sont destinées à la gloire si nous restons fidèles à Dieu.

Le Magnificat : un chant de louange et d'humilité Luc 1 : 39-58.

Dans l'Évangile de Luc, nous avons un autre aperçu du cœur de Marie à travers sa rencontre avec sa cousine Élisabeth et son hymne de louange ultérieur, le Magnificat. Lorsque Marie rend visite à Elisabeth, Elisabeth, remplie du Saint- Esprit, s'exclame : «Tu es bénie entre les femmes, et béni est le fruit de tes entrailles! » (Luc 1:42). Par la bouche d'Élisabeth, Dieu confirme à Marie que le fils en son sein est unique ; Il est le Fils du Dieu Très-Haut. La réponse de Marie est une profonde humilité et louange : « Mon âme exalte le Seigneur et mon esprit se réjouit en Dieu mon Sauveur» (Luc 1 : 46-47). Ainsi, elle nous enseigne l’importance de la gratitude : être toujours reconnaissant envers Dieu pour son amour, sa fidélité et son salut.

Le Magnificat de Marie est un chant de foi profonde et de confiance dans les promesses de Dieu. Elle reconnaît sa petitesse et la grandeur de Dieu, reconnaissant que toutes les bénédictions de sa vie viennent de Dieu. Son humilité et sa foi sont les qualités qui ont fait d'elle le vase parfait pour le plan de salut de Dieu. Le Magnificat parle aussi de la justice de Dieu, comment Il « a dispersé les orgueilleux dans les pensées de leurs cœurs » et « a élevé les humbles » (Luc 1 : 51-52).

Alors que nous réfléchissons à la solennité d'aujourd'hui, nous nous rappelons que l'assomption de Marie au ciel est l'élévation ultime des humbles. Sa vie a été marquée par l'humilité, le service et l'abandon total à Dieu. Dans son assomption, Dieu honore son humilité et sa fidélité, élevant son corps et son âme à la gloire du Ciel. Le Magnificat de Marie devient non seulement un chant de sa vie mais un chant pour nous tous qui nous efforçons de vivre dans l'humilité et la foi. C’est un rappel que Dieu exalte ceux qui sont humbles et que la vraie grandeur se trouve dans le service de Dieu avec un cœur humble.

Un appel à imiter Marie

La fête d'aujourd'hui ne consiste pas seulement à honorer Marie ; c'est aussi une invitation pour nous à suivre son exemple. L'assomption de Marie au ciel nous rappelle la destinée éternelle qui attend tous ceux qui sont fidèles à Dieu. Nous sommes appelés à vivre notre vie avec la même humilité, la même foi et la même confiance dont Marie a fait preuve.

En honorant Marie, cherchons aussi à l’imiter. Efforçons-nous d'être humbles dans notre vie quotidienne, en faisant confiance au plan de Dieu pour nous, même lorsque nous ne le comprenons pas pleinement. Louons Dieu pour ses bénédictions et reconnaissons que toutes les bonnes choses viennent de lui. Et gardons l’espérance que, comme Marie, nous serons nous aussi ressuscités pour partager la gloire du Ciel.

Marie, élevée au Ciel, priez pour nous, afin que nous puissions vivre une vie digne des promesses du Christ et vous rejoindre un jour dans la joie éternelle du Ciel. Amen.🙏🙏🙏

 

 

 

 

From Humility to Glory: The Assumption of Mother Mary and Our Heavenly Call

Today, as we celebrate the Feast of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, we gather to contemplate one of the most profound mysteries of our faith: Mary’s glorious assumption into Heaven. This feast is a celebration not only of Mary’s unique role in salvation history but also of the hope and promise that awaits all who follow Christ. As we reflect on the Scriptures, particularly Revelation 12:1-10 and Luke 1:39-58, we are invited to enter more deeply into the mystery of Mary’s life and her eternal destiny.

Revelation 12:1-10: The Woman Clothed with the Sun

In the book of Revelation, we encounter a powerful and symbolic vision: “A great sign appeared in the sky, a woman clothed with the sun, with the moon under her feet, and on her head a crown of twelve stars” (Revelation 12:1). This image of the woman is often understood by the Church to represent Mary, the Mother of God, as well as the Church itself.

Mary, clothed with the sun, reflects the radiance of God’s glory. She is the Woman full of grace, filled with the Holy Spirit.  Her crown of twelve stars signifies her queenship and her role as the Mother of the Church, guiding and protecting the faithful. The battle between the woman and the dragon, representing the forces of evil, reminds us of the cosmic struggle between good and evil, a battle that Mary participates in through her obedience to God and her role in bringing forth the Savior. She accomplished faithfully this divine mission because she was so humble and totally obedient to God’s will. And in her Jesus fulfilled His promise in John 12:26. Mary is not only with her son Jesus, but with the Holy Trinity and God honors her.

Mary’s assumption into Heaven is the fulfillment of the revelation vision. In her assumption, we see the victory of grace over sin, life over death. Mary’s life was one of complete surrender to God’s will, and her assumption is the crowning of that life, a testimony to the victory of God’s love and mercy. As Mary is taken up to Heaven, she becomes a sign of hope for all of us, a reminder that Heaven is our true home and that our lives, too, are destined for glory if we remain faithful to God.

The Magnificat: A Song of Praise and Humility Luke 1:39-58.

In the Gospel of Luke, we are given another glimpse into the heart of Mary through her encounter with her cousin Elizabeth and her subsequent hymn of praise, the Magnificat. When Mary visits Elizabeth, Elizabeth, filled with the Holy Spirit, exclaims, “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb!” (Luke 1:42). Through the mouth of Elizabeth, the God confirms to Mary that the son in her womb is unique; He is the Son of the most high God. Mary’s response is one of profound humility and praise: “My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior” (Luke 1:46-47). Thus, she teaches us the importance of gratitude: being always grateful to God for His Love, Faithfulness, and Salvation.

Mary’s Magnificat is a song of profound faith and trust in God’s promises. She recognizes her lowliness and God’s greatness, acknowledging that all the blessings in her life come from God. Her humility and faith are the qualities that made her the perfect vessel for God’s plan of salvation. The Magnificat also speaks of God’s justice, how He “has scattered the proud in the thoughts of their hearts” and “has lifted up the lowly” (Luke 1:51-52).

As we reflect on today’s solemnity, we are reminded that Mary’s assumption into Heaven is the ultimate lifting up of the lowly. Her life was marked by humility, service, and total surrender to God. In her assumption, God honors her humility and faithfulness, raising her body and soul into the glory of Heaven. Mary’s Magnificat becomes not just a song of her life but a song for all of us who strive to live in humility and faith. It is a reminder that God exalts those who are lowly, and that true greatness is found in serving God with a humble heart.

A Call to Imitate Mary

Today’s feast is not just about honoring Mary; it is also an invitation for us to follow her example. Mary’s assumption into Heaven reminds us of the eternal destiny that awaits all who are faithful to God. We are called to live our lives with the same humility, faith, and trust that Mary demonstrated.

As we honor Mary, let us also seek to imitate her. Let us strive to be humble in our daily lives, trusting in God’s plan for us even when we do not fully understand it. Let us praise God for His blessings and recognize that all good things come from Him. And let us hold on to the hope that, like Mary, we too will be raised up to share in the glory of Heaven.

Mary, assumed into Heaven, pray for us, that we may live lives worthy of the promises of Christ and one day join you in the eternal joy of Heaven. Amen.🙏🙏🙏