Homily: Feast of the Assumption

Feast of the Assumption (Lk. 1:39-56) “Relationship Brings Blessings”

We just finished the summer Olympics. I was fascinated by the spectacle as everyone else was. But I was left asking a question. How is it that some athletes are eligible to compete for two or more nations. The competitor must choose one team, but they seem to be able to decide which one.

The answer to my question is that an athlete can be a citizen of more than one nation. Citizenship is determined by parentage. If you have parents from two different nations, you may be considered a citizen of more than one country along with country of origin. Of course, a person usually must apply for citizenship in countries they want to be a part of. A person’s relationships usually determine the privileges they are eligible to receive.

We might say that this is what the Assumption could represent. What is the gold medal that we hope for. The gold medal is eternal life, a share in the resurrection.

As Christians we believe that Jesus rose from the dead to pave the way for us to rise from the dead. Since we are brothers and sisters of the Lord we will share in the prize of eternal life. What is the proof that this is true?

We have the text of the scriptures which tell us this is so like First Corinthians which we read from today where we are told that “Jesus is the first fruits of those who have fallen asleep.”

We also have the dogma of the Assumption. The Blessed Virgin Mary, we believe, was assumed into heaven. She was the first to share in the resurrection. She is a sign that what Jesus preached is indeed truth. His death led to a new and more abundant life. Mary’s death led to life eternal as well. She got the golden prize first because she was Jesus’ mother. Just as Jesus’ death wasn’t the end of his story, the Blessed Virgin’s death wasn’t the end of her life. Jesus lives. Mary lives.

We recall today, not just what happened to Mary but what will happen to us. Believing Christians will enter heavenly glory. The more we remember that fact of our faith the more hope filled our life becomes.

Reflection Questions:

1.    Why do we read the text of the Magnificat on this day? What does it say to me?

2.   How do I view my death? Am I reassured by the Dogma of the Assumption?

 Dear Parishioners,      

            Do you know someone who is not part of a church family? If so, you might invite them to become part of the Sacred Heart church family. We are recruiting for our OCIA program. We will help interested adults receive baptism, first communion and confirmation.

            You can have them call our office and we will be glad to help them discern their call to be Roman Catholic Christians. Don’t delay. Invite them today.

            May Our Lady pray for us,

            Fr. Mark