Mary's Fiat: A Model of Surrender and Obedience
๐ Introduction ๐ In the story of Christianity, the Blessed Virgin Mary holds a special place as the Mother of God. Her unwavering faith, surrender, and obedience have made her a model for all believers to follow. Mary's "fiat," or her "yes" to God's plan, demonstrates the utmost trust in the divine will. Let us explore the beauty of Mary's surrender and obedience, and how we can apply these virtues in our own lives.
1๏ธโฃ A Humble Heart ๐ Mary's fiat was rooted in her deep humility. Despite being chosen to be the Mother of God, she never sought recognition or power. Instead, she embraced her role with grace and humility, recognizing that she was simply an instrument in God's divine plan. Her humility serves as a reminder to us all to be humble in our own lives and to trust in God's plan for us.
2๏ธโฃ Surrendering to God's Will ๐ Mary's fiat exemplifies her complete surrender to God's will. When the angel Gabriel appeared to her, announcing that she would bear a child, Mary's response was, "Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord; let it be to me according to your word" (Luke 1:38). This profound act of surrender teaches us the importance of aligning our will with God's and trusting in His plan, even when it may be difficult or unknown to us.
3๏ธโฃ Obedience in Action ๐ Mary's obedience to God's will was unwavering. She willingly accepted the challenges and uncertainties that lay ahead, knowing that God was guiding her every step of the way. Her obedience allowed her to fulfill her role as the Mother of God and participate in the salvation of humanity. Just as Mary embraced obedience, we too are called to faithfully follow God's commandments and live in accordance with His teachings.
4๏ธโฃ Biblical Examples โ๏ธ Throughout the Bible, we can find numerous examples of Mary's surrender and obedience. One such example can be seen at the Wedding at Cana (John 2:1-11). When the wine ran out, Mary turned to Jesus and said, "They have no wine." Even though Jesus initially responded, "Woman, what does this have to do with me?" Mary remained steadfast in her faith and obedience, telling the servants, "Do whatever he tells you." By trusting in Jesus and following His instructions, Mary played a pivotal role in the first public miracle performed by Jesus.
5๏ธโฃ The Catechism's Wisdom ๐ The Catechism of the Catholic Church beautifully articulates Mary's fiat and its significance: "By her complete adherence to the Father's will, to his Son's redemptive work, and to every prompting of the Holy Spirit, the Virgin Mary is the Church's model of faith and charity" (CCC 967). Mary's surrender and obedience serve as an inspiration for all believers, reminding us to align our lives with God's will and to trust in His guidance.
6๏ธโฃ Saints and Mary's Fiat ๐ผ Throughout the history of the Catholic Church, many saints have looked to Mary as a model of surrender and obedience. Saint Therese of Lisieux, for example, had a deep devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary and often prayed to her for guidance in her own spiritual journey. Saint Maximilian Kolbe also found inspiration in Mary's fiat, choosing to surrender his life in the place of a fellow prisoner in Auschwitz. These saints and many others have recognized the powerful example set by Mary and sought to emulate her virtues in their own lives.
7๏ธโฃ Finding Strength in Surrender ๐ช Surrendering to God's will does not mean giving up or losing control. On the contrary, it is an act of trust and a recognition that God's plan is far greater than our own. When we surrender to God, we find strength in knowing that He is in control and that He will guide us through any challenges we may face.
8๏ธโฃ Embracing Obedience as Love โค๏ธ Obedience is often seen as a restrictive concept, limiting our freedom and desires. However, Mary's obedience shows us that true obedience is an act of love. By following God's commandments and living according to His teachings, we show our love and gratitude for all that He has done for us. Obedience is not a burden, but rather a path to true freedom and fulfillment in our lives.
9๏ธโฃ Mary, Our Loving Mother ๐ฉโ๐งโ๐ฆ As Catholics, we have a special devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary. She is not only the Mother of God but also our loving mother who intercedes for us and guides us along our spiritual journey. Just as a loving mother looks after her children, Mary watches over us and offers us her support and prayers. We can turn to her in times of need, seeking her intercession and following her example of surrender and obedience.
๐ค Conclusion ๐ค Mary's fiat serves as a model of surrender and obedience for all believers. Her humility, surrender, and obedience are virtues that we can strive to emulate in our own lives. By trusting in God's plan, aligning our will with His, and obediently following His commandments, we can grow in faith and deepen our relationship with Him. Let us reflect on Mary's example and ask ourselves, are we willing to say "yes" to God's will in our own lives? ๐
What are your thoughts on Mary's surrender and obedience? How can you apply these virtues in your own life? Share your reflections and experiences below.
Miriam Mchome (Guest) on April 13, 2021
No one loved Jesus more than Mary, His mother, and no one loves us more than she does in heaven.
Mariam Hassan (Guest) on March 11, 2021
God has a plan for you, trust in it
Josephine Nduta (Guest) on February 26, 2021
St. Bernardine of Siena: โMary was the most perfect among the saints only because she was always perfectly united to the will of God.โ
George Mallya (Guest) on February 15, 2021
Our Lady of Fatima, pray for the conversion of hearts and the triumph of peace in the world.
Rahma (Guest) on February 13, 2021
In Mary's soul, God found a dwelling place pure and holy, where He could take on human flesh for our redemption.
Hassan (Guest) on February 11, 2021
In her humility, Mary teaches us how to love God above all things, with purity of heart and soul.
Alice Wanjiru (Guest) on February 9, 2021
Walk by faith, not by sight
Samson Mahiga (Guest) on February 3, 2021
Mary is the daughter of God the Father, the mother of God the Son, and the spouse of God the Holy Spirit.
Binti (Guest) on January 29, 2021
Mother of Good Counsel, pray for those seeking guidance and wisdom in difficult times.
Lucy Wangui (Guest) on January 10, 2021
As the Ark of the New Covenant, Mary carried within her the Savior of the world, becoming an integral part of Godโs salvific plan.
Amir (Guest) on January 3, 2021
St. Albert the Great: โAs the sun exceeds all the stars in lustre, so does the Blessed Virgin exceed all the saints in glory.โ
Diana Mumbua (Guest) on December 18, 2020
As the new Eve, Maryโs obedience to God contrasts with the disobedience of the first Eve, bringing life where there was death.
Zulekha (Guest) on November 30, 2020
Mother Most Pure, pray for us, that we may resist temptation and strive for holiness.
John Malisa (Guest) on November 22, 2020
Mary is the Mother of the Church, given to us by Jesus to guide and protect us as we journey toward salvation.
Francis Njeru (Guest) on November 9, 2020
Faith grows stronger in trials
Carol Nyakio (Guest) on November 7, 2020
Praying for you ๐
Susan Wangari (Guest) on November 6, 2020
In faith, all things are possible
Agnes Sumaye (Guest) on November 3, 2020
God bless you!
Rose Kiwanga (Guest) on October 30, 2020
Faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see
Peter Mbise (Guest) on October 18, 2020
Maryโs life was one of deep prayer and contemplation, and she encourages all Christians to follow her example.
Ruth Mtangi (Guest) on October 2, 2020
Blessings to you and your family.
Khalifa (Guest) on September 30, 2020
St. Peter Julian Eymard: โWhen I am in a time of trouble, I run to my mother Mary, and she comes to my aid.โ
Isaac Kiptoo (Guest) on September 24, 2020
The Lord is near to all who call on Him
Richard Mulwa (Guest) on September 23, 2020
St. John Henry Newman: โMary is the most beautiful flower ever seen in the spiritual world.โ
Patrick Kidata (Guest) on September 22, 2020
Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners, now and at the hour of our death. Amen.
Samuel Were (Guest) on September 15, 2020
Faith can move mountains
David Kawawa (Guest) on August 21, 2020
As the Mother of God, Mary shared a unique relationship with Jesus, the second Person of the Holy Trinity.
Mzee (Guest) on August 10, 2020
St. Augustine: โMary is the flower of the field from whom bloomed the precious lily of the valley.โ
Rukia (Guest) on August 9, 2020
Maryโs participation in salvation continues in her role as the Queen of Heaven, where she intercedes for us and guides us toward eternal life with Christ.
Daniel Obura (Guest) on July 25, 2020
At Cana, Maryโs faith in Jesusโ power to save was revealed, as she urged Him to perform His first miracle, foreshadowing His work of redemption.
Sekela (Guest) on July 20, 2020
Holy Mother, pray for all those who have fallen away from the faith, that they may return to the Church.
Nasra (Guest) on July 15, 2020
Virgin Mary, pray for the souls in purgatory, that they may quickly be welcomed into the joy of heaven.
Mary Kidata (Guest) on July 8, 2020
Keep believing, even when it's hard to see the way
Khamis (Guest) on July 7, 2020
Maryโs cooperation with the Holy Trinity made her the model of faith, obedience, and love for all believers.
Jamal (Guest) on June 9, 2020
St. Ambrose: โMaryโs life is a lesson to all Christians. In her obedience, humility, and purity, we find the model of every virtue.โ
Tabu (Guest) on May 29, 2020
Mary's intercession is powerful because her heart is so closely united with the heart of her Son.
Anna Kibwana (Guest) on April 19, 2020
The Fatherโs eternal plan was fulfilled through Maryโs โyes,โ allowing the Son to be born by the power of the Holy Spirit.
Catherine Mkumbo (Guest) on April 14, 2020
The Holy Spirit descended upon Mary, and through her, the Word became flesh and dwelt among us.
Anna Malela (Guest) on April 9, 2020
Mercy triumphs over judgment
Stephen Kikwete (Guest) on April 9, 2020
God is good, all the time!
Stephen Kikwete (Guest) on March 14, 2020
Mother Mary, intercede for us and bring our prayers to the throne of grace.
Mwagonda (Guest) on February 21, 2020
Mary is the living tabernacle of the Holy Trinity, as she bore the Son of God and was overshadowed by the Holy Spirit.
Grace Njuguna (Guest) on February 13, 2020
God's promises are always true
Mercy Atieno (Guest) on January 30, 2020
St. Teresa of Calcutta: โIf you ever feel distressed during your day, call upon Our Lady. Just say this simple prayer: \'Mary, Mother of Jesus, please be a mother to me now.\'โ
Nahida (Guest) on January 21, 2020
The Blessed Virgin Mary is venerated in the Church as the Queen of Heaven and Earth.
Nassar (Guest) on January 18, 2020
Mary, the Mother of God, is the sure refuge of sinners, always ready to lead us to repentance and mercy.
Esther Cheruiyot (Guest) on January 17, 2020
Trust in the Lord; He knows the way
Mary Sokoine (Guest) on January 17, 2020
Maryโs divine motherhood places her in a unique relationship with the Holy Trinity, making her the Mother of the Church.
Issa (Guest) on January 15, 2020
In the Gospel of Luke, Elizabeth calls Mary 'blessed among women,' recognizing her unique role in God's plan of salvation.
Arifa (Guest) on November 20, 2019
The Blessed Virgin is a mirror of the Trinity, reflecting the love, grace, and power of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
Henry Mollel (Guest) on November 4, 2019
In the person of St. John, Mary was given to all humanity as our spiritual mother by Jesus, continuing her role in our salvation.
Lucy Wangui (Guest) on November 2, 2019
St. Francis de Sales: โDo not be afraid to ask for great things from the Mother of God. She is the Queen of Heaven and has the heart of a Mother.โ
Benjamin Kibicho (Guest) on October 29, 2019
Mary was chosen by God to be the Mother of Jesus, making her the most blessed among women.
Henry Mollel (Guest) on October 29, 2019
Grace and peace be with you.
Joseph Kitine (Guest) on October 24, 2019
In her Assumption, Maryโs participation in salvation is complete, as she is taken body and soul into heaven, where she continues to intercede for us.
Mohamed (Guest) on October 20, 2019
At Pentecost, Mary prayed with the apostles, preparing them to spread the Gospel of salvation to all nations.
Robert Ndunguru (Guest) on September 19, 2019
The prayers of Mary are more powerful than an army; she is our surest advocate before the throne of God.
Andrew Mchome (Guest) on September 16, 2019
God's mercy is new every morning
Mary Njeri (Guest) on September 14, 2019
Maryโs participation in salvation was both physical and spiritual, as she not only bore the Savior but also united her will perfectly with Godโs plan.
Nchi (Guest) on September 6, 2019
Throughout Jesus\' public ministry, Mary supported her Son with silent prayer, faith, and maternal love, contributing to His work of redemption.