21st Week in Ordinary Time : Monday 22nd August 2022

The first reading presents the famous “messianic” prophecy of the birth of a child. It describes an ideal king whose reign is still in the future. The titles were given to the royal child, primarily, “Mighty-God”, which signifies that He is more than a human being. This king is expected to bring about an era of peace. Isaiah’s message gives a vision of hope and a promise of universal peace, which humanity longs for.

Christianity applied this prophecy to the birth of Jesus. In doing so, it picked up the fact that these wonderful attributes were attached to a child, to one who has no real power in this world. Yet, it is this child who symbolises the hope of humanity for a brighter future. The prophecy affirms that the key to this future lies in justice and innocence rather than in military might, political power or abundant wealth.

Mary is surprised at Angel Grabirel’s greeting and of the announcement that Jesus will be born of her. How is she the highly favoured one, blessed among women? The answer is: it is not because of something she has done but because of God’s choice of her for a unique role in His plan of salvation. Mary’s physical motherhood was a special grace, but her spiritual motherhood is one shared by all who make the same faithful response she did. As the glorified Jesus remains with us as our King till the end of time, so does Mary, who was assumed into heaven and crowned Queen of heaven and earth.

Mother Mary, You are my Queen.