The Catholic Calendar for Monday, August 15, 2005
Solemnity of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary
(today is a Holyday of Obligation - see this)

Scripture from today's Liturgy of the Word:
Revelation 11:19a; 12:1-6a, 10ab
Psalm 45:10, 11, 12, 16
1 Corinthians 15:20-27
Luke 1:39-56

A reflection on today's Sacred Scripture:

In today's Gospel we hear Jesus speak about the blessedness of those who hear and keep the word of God. It is no trivial statement, but the pledge of the Almighty One, who remembers those who love Him.

Today the Church celebrates the Assumption of Mary into heaven. It is a Solemnity that presages the victory over the power of sin and death in our own lives. Unlike Mary who was sinless from her conception and throughout all her life, we have suffered the many mutilating effects of sin. In His infinite mercy however, God has allowed us access to His grace which obliterates the grip of sin on us and allows us the opportunity to imitate Mary. In the end we are promised what she obtained: eternal happiness in heaven.

Our lives are filled with joys, sorrows and challenges. Like Mary, may we proclaim the greatness of the Lord who has looked on us, His servants, with mercy. Let us rejoice! "The mighty God has done great things for me and His mercy will reach from age to age. And holy is His name."

- Donna Raye Nelson, OCDS
(drn3rd at hotmail dot com)

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