BLESSED VIRGIN MARY: ROLE MODEL OF GOD’S CHILDREN. A TALK DELIVERED BY REV. FR. DANIEL EVBOTOKHAI ON THE OCCASION OF THE BLOCK ROSARY CONVENTION HELD AT ST. PATRICK CATHOLIC CHURCH, EWAN, AKOKO-EDO, EDO STATE(9/3/2024)
The topic “Blessed Virgin Mary: The role model of God’s children” seeks to fosters the Marian spirituality. This spirituality refers to a particular approach to Christian spirituality that emphasizes the role of the Blessed Virgin Mary in the life of believers. It is a devotional and theological framework that encourages individuals to cultivate a deep relationship with Mary, the mother of Jesus, and to draw inspiration from her virtues and example.
Marian spirituality is particularly prominent in Catholicism but is also present in other Christian denominations. Some believers who are not Catholics also desire her virtue and practice them. However, true Marian spirituality involves: Devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary (Prayers and Rosary), Imitating Mary’s virtue, Intercessory role, Marian feast days, Marian apparitions, Marian titles, Liturgical incorporation and Marian consecration.
All believers or true devotees of Mary are called to venerate the Blessed Virgin Mary as a role model of God’s children. Mary, the mother of Jesus, is often regarded as a model of humility, faith, obedience, and devotion. Here are five ways in which the Blessed Virgin Mary is considered a role model for God’s children:
- Humility:
Mary’s humility is evident in her response to the Angel Gabriel’s announcement that she would conceive the Son of God. Despite being chosen for a divine and momentous task, Mary humbly accepts her role, acknowledging her lowly state (Luke 1:38). Her humility serves as an example for servants to approach their duties with a humble and selfless attitude.
- Obedience to God’s Will:
Mary’s immediate and unwavering obedience to God’s will is highlighted in her response to the angelic message. She willingly accepts the challenging and extraordinary role of being the Mother of Jesus, saying, “Let it be done to me according to your word” (Luke 1:38). Mary’s obedience reflects a profound trust in God’s plan and serves as a model for servants to align themselves with God’s will in their service.
- Faithfulness and Perseverance:
Mary’s life is marked by faithfulness and perseverance, especially during challenging times. From the Annunciation to the Presentation of Jesus in the Temple and beyond, Mary remains steadfast in her commitment to God. Her enduring faith in the face of adversity serves as an inspiration for servants to persevere in their service, trusting in God’s guidance. Again, Mary endured significant challenges and sorrows, from the prophecy of Simeon to witnessing the crucifixion of her son. Her perseverance in the face of suffering serves as a model for God’s children to endure trials with faith and fortitude, trusting that God’s plan unfolds even in difficult circumstances.
- Compassion and Service to Others:
Mary’s compassion is evident in her response to the needs of others, such as her visit to Elizabeth when she was pregnant with John the Baptist (Luke 1:39-56). Her willingness to serve and support others reflects a compassionate heart. Servants are encouraged to emulate Mary’s example by extending care and service to those in need.
- Pondering and Reflection:
The Gospel of Luke describes Mary as one who “pondered all these things in her heart” (Luke 2:19, 2:51). Mary’s reflective and contemplative nature serves as a model for servants to take time for introspection, meditation, and discernment. This practice helps deepen one’s understanding of God’s will and strengthens the spiritual foundation of their service.
- Purity and Holiness:
Mary’s Immaculate Conception and lifelong commitment to holiness make her a symbol of purity. Believers are called to pursue moral purity and strive for holiness in their lives, following Mary’s example of living a life consecrated to God.
In conclusion, the Catholic Church regards Mary even as her model, hence she who is often referred to as the “Handmaid of the Lord” (Luke 1:38) is regarded as the “Mother of the Church.” Her virtues and qualities make her an exemplary figure for those seeking to serve with humility, obedience, faithfulness, compassion, and reflective contemplation. Many believers turn to Mary as a source of inspiration and intercession in their own journeys of service and discipleship.
