(Audio)
The Son of God from all eternity became the son of Mary in history in order that, united with him, we might also become sons of the heavenly Father. Forgiveness of sins was important precisely in that it stood in his way of this goal. Salvation was not merely intended to be salvation from sin but also and especially salvation for the life of God.
When the fullness of time had come, God sent his Son,
born of a woman, born under the law,
to ransom those under the law,
so that we might receive adoption as sons.
Because God's goal was to adopt us, and our human nature into his own divine family life Mary was the fulcrum of his plan, and not merely incidental. He did not simple appear with the body of a human out of nowhere. Rather, his connection with humanity is something much more concrete and specific than that. It is precisely because he was willing to have Mary as his mother that he became close enough to humanity that we might have God as our Father, that Jesus himself might be our eldest brother.
The shepherds went in haste to Bethlehem and found Mary and Joseph,
and the infant lying in the manger.
When they saw this,
they made known the message
that had been told them about this child.
The shepherds were amazed. Surprisingly, it wasn't the fearful and transcendent angels that they were excited about and wanted to speak about with others. It was the infant lying in the manger. In their simplicity and faith they believed the angels. They behold God near to them in a way heretofore unknown.
Mary's very life speaks blessings on her people, the new Israel, the Church.
This is how you shall bless the Israelites.
Say to them:
The LORD bless you and keep you!
The LORD let his face shine upon
you, and be gracious to you!
The LORD look upon you kindly and
give you peace!
Mary gives Jesus the human face by which God's face can shine upon humanity. The face of Jesus really wants to look kindly on us and give us peace. Let us receive this gift given to us, as to the shepherds, by the great mother of God.
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