For the Twenty-third Sunday in Ordinary Time
Be strong, fear not!
Here is your God,
he comes with vindication;
with divine recompense
he comes to save you.
Isaiah 35:4
These words from Isaiah are part of a hymn celebrating a restored Jerusalem. When we hear them in our day, we are easily reminded of the saving work of the Messiah, Jesus, who is Our Lord, our Vindication, and the Cornerstone of the Church. As I go to Mass this Sunday, giving thanks for my salvation and life in Christ, I can also easily thank God for the important people who have passed on the faith to me and have played a role in inspiring me to live this great gift of faith. There is a long list of people for whom I am grateful! But someone particularly comes to mind today, since it is her birthday!
On this date we traditionally celebrate Mary’s birth, for when today’s feast day lands on days other than Sunday, the Church calendar names it the Nativity of Blessed Virgin Mary. Years ago in some regions the feast was known to many as Marymas, coming nine months after the feast of the Immaculate Conception (December 8). Mary’s role in bringing Jesus Christ to us was a great part of God’s plan of redemption. For we not only gained a Savior, but a Mother whose heart was beautifully aligned with God’s will.
Lord Jesus, thank you for being our Victor over sin and death. And thank you for the many subsequent gifts you’ve given us—including Mary—that accompanied your coming to save us.
