Title: Mary, Ark of the New Covenant: Bearing the Savior of the World
Introduction:
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As Christians, we hold a deep reverence for the Blessed Virgin Mary, the Mother of God. Her role in salvation history is one of great significance and her unwavering faith is an inspiration to us all. In this article, we will explore the beautiful title bestowed upon her - Mary, Ark of the New Covenant. Let's delve into why she is called such and how her unique role as the bearer of the Savior of the world fulfills the divine plan.
- Mary, the chosen vessel of God's plan:
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From the Annunciation to her acceptance of God's will, Mary played a pivotal role in God's plan for the salvation of humanity. Just as the Ark of the Old Covenant held the tablets of the Ten Commandments, Mary carried within her womb the Word made flesh, Jesus Christ.
- A parallel between the Old and New Covenants:
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In the Old Testament, the Ark of the Covenant was considered holy and revered by the Israelites. It symbolized the presence of God among His people. Similarly, Mary, as the Ark of the New Covenant, carried within her the presence of God made flesh.
- Biblical evidence:
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In the Book of Luke, we find the account of Mary's visit to her cousin Elizabeth. When Elizabeth heard Mary's greeting, she exclaimed, "Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb!" (Luke 1:42) This echoes the words of King David in 2 Samuel 6:9, when he exclaimed, "How can the ark of the Lord come to me?" These parallels serve to highlight Mary's unique role as the Ark of the New Covenant.
- The purity of Mary's womb:
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Mary, in her immaculate conception, preserved from all sin, provided the perfect dwelling place for Jesus. Just as the Ark of the Old Covenant was crafted with pure gold, Mary's purity made her a fitting vessel to carry the Son of God.
- The reverence of the early Church:
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From the earliest days of Christianity, the Catholic Church has held Mary in the highest regard. The Catechism of the Catholic Church states, "The Church's devotion to the Blessed Virgin is intrinsic to Christian worship." (CCC 971) Mary's role as the Ark of the New Covenant is central to this devotion.
- The testimony of the saints:
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Throughout history, numerous saints have expressed their devotion to Mary as the Ark of the New Covenant. Saint Ambrose wrote, "You are the vessel and tabernacle containing all mysteries." Saint Thomas Aquinas proclaimed, "Mary is the true Ark, because the flesh of Christ, the Bread of Life, has been contained in her."
- Mary, the bearer of salvation:
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By embracing her role as the Ark of the New Covenant, Mary willingly carried the Savior of the world within her. She became the bridge between heaven and earth, bringing hope and salvation to all humanity.
- Mary's unique maternal role:
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As the Mother of God, Mary's love and tender care for Jesus were unparalleled. Just as the Ark of the Old Covenant provided protection and shelter for the tablets of the Law, Mary protected and nurtured Jesus throughout His earthly life.
- Mary's perpetual virginity:
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The Catholic Church teaches that Mary remained a perpetual virgin, even after giving birth to Jesus. This belief is based on biblical evidence, such as the angel's greeting to Mary, "Hail, full of grace!" (Luke 1:28) and Joseph's decision to take Mary as his wife without knowing her intimately (Matthew 1:18-25).
- Mary as the model of faith:
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Mary's unwavering faith and obedience to God's will serve as an example for all believers. Her "Fiat" (Luke 1:38), her "Yes" to God's plan, teaches us the importance of surrendering ourselves to God's divine will.
- The significance of Mary's intercession:
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The Catholic Church recognizes Mary as our powerful intercessor before God. Just as the Ark of the Old Covenant was a means of communicating with God, Mary's prayers and intercession bring us closer to her Son, Jesus Christ.
- The perpetual presence of Mary:
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Just as the Ark of the Old Covenant was carried into the Promised Land, Mary, as the Ark of the New Covenant, continues to accompany us on our spiritual journey. She is the Mother of the Church, guiding and protecting us along the way.
- The joy and comfort of devotion to Mary:
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Devotion to Mary brings immense joy, comfort, and spiritual graces. Our blessed Mother's love is a constant source of solace and inspiration. Through her intercession, we are drawn closer to the heart of her Son, Jesus.
- Mary's role in our salvation:
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Mary's obedient "Yes" to God's plan played a vital role in our salvation. Through her cooperation, Jesus, the Savior of the world, was born into our midst, offering eternal life and redemption to all who believe.
- Conclusion:
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Mary, Ark of the New Covenant, holds a special place in our hearts and in the teachings of the Catholic Church. Her unique role as the bearer of the Savior of the world is a testament to her unwavering faith and love for God. Let us turn to her in prayer, seeking her intercession and guidance, as we strive to follow her example of trust and surrender to God's will.
What are your thoughts on the significance of Mary as the Ark of the New Covenant? How has devotion to her impacted your spiritual journey?
Carol Nyakio (Guest) on May 8, 2021
God is good, all the time!
Anna Mahiga (Guest) on April 23, 2021
God is faithful; He will never leave you nor forsake you
Mwakisu (Guest) on April 10, 2021
Mother of Hope, pray for those who feel lost and abandoned, that they may find solace in Christ.
Wilson Ombati (Guest) on March 9, 2021
As the Mother of God, Mary played an essential role in the salvation of humanity by giving birth to the Savior.
Jane Muthui (Guest) on March 3, 2021
Mary is the chosen vessel through which Christ entered the world, and through her intercession, He continues to touch our lives.
Alice Jebet (Guest) on February 24, 2021
St. Padre Pio: “Love Our Lady and make her loved; always recite the Rosary and recite it as often as possible.”
Elizabeth Mrope (Guest) on February 23, 2021
Mary is the masterpiece of the Holy Trinity, chosen, loved, and sanctified by God from all eternity.
Moses Kipkemboi (Guest) on February 16, 2021
St. Ambrose: “Mary’s life is a lesson to all Christians. In her obedience, humility, and purity, we find the model of every virtue.”
Lucy Mushi (Guest) on February 9, 2021
God is our refuge and strength, always ready to help in times of trouble
Thomas Mwakalindile (Guest) on February 2, 2021
Throughout her life, Mary was a model of humility, always seeking to do God's will, not her own.
Mwajuma (Guest) on January 20, 2021
Holy Mother, pray for the poor and the marginalized, that they may find dignity and support through Christ.
Joseph Mallya (Guest) on January 17, 2021
The Virgin Mary is honored not only in Catholicism but also in Eastern Orthodoxy, where she is called the 'Most Holy Theotokos.'
Irene Akoth (Guest) on December 26, 2020
Chosen by the Father, Mary became the Mother of His only begotten Son and was filled with the Holy Spirit.
Jackson Makori (Guest) on November 29, 2020
Her title, 'Theotokos,' means 'God-bearer,' affirming her role as the Mother of God in the early Christian councils.
Kazija (Guest) on November 16, 2020
Our Lady is the most perfect mirror of Christ. In her, we see the beauty of God's grace reflected.
Susan Wangari (Guest) on November 13, 2020
Trust in the Lord; He knows the way
Samuel Omondi (Guest) on November 7, 2020
Mary’s Immaculate Conception was the first step in God’s plan of salvation, preserving her from sin so that she could bear the sinless Savior.
Nora Lowassa (Guest) on November 7, 2020
Mary’s intimate relationship with the Trinity began at her conception and was fulfilled in her divine motherhood.
Nancy Kawawa (Guest) on October 29, 2020
Mary’s Immaculate Heart is a source of grace for the world, continually participating in the work of salvation by leading souls to her Son.
Athumani (Guest) on October 16, 2020
Through Mary, the second Person of the Holy Trinity, Jesus Christ, entered the world for the redemption of mankind.
Stephen Kikwete (Guest) on October 12, 2020
St. Clare of Assisi: “She carried the King of heaven in her womb and still lived a life of poverty and humility.”
Joseph Kitine (Guest) on October 10, 2020
The Holy Trinity crowned Mary as Queen of Heaven, recognizing her role in bringing the Savior into the world.
Hawa (Guest) on October 9, 2020
St. John Paul II: “Do not be afraid of loving Mary too much. You can never love her more than Jesus did.”
John Mushi (Guest) on October 4, 2020
God love never fails.
Raphael Okoth (Guest) on September 18, 2020
Mary’s role in salvation is inseparable from her Son’s; she cooperated fully with His mission, offering her life and her heart for the salvation of the world.
Maulid (Guest) on September 10, 2020
Our Lady of Fatima, pray for the conversion of hearts and the triumph of peace in the world.
Patrick Kidata (Guest) on August 20, 2020
God the Father predestined Mary from all eternity to be the mother of His Son, Jesus Christ.
George Ndungu (Guest) on August 20, 2020
God is good, all the time!
Rose Kiwanga (Guest) on August 16, 2020
Faith can move mountains
Grace Njuguna (Guest) on August 10, 2020
Let your light shine before others
Jane Muthoni (Guest) on August 4, 2020
There is hope for a future, for God knows the plans He has for you
Warda (Guest) on August 2, 2020
Through her maternal care, Mary prepared Jesus for His mission of salvation, guiding Him in His early years and supporting Him throughout His life.
James Mduma (Guest) on July 9, 2020
Mary’s Magnificat proclaims the salvation brought by God through her Son, recognizing His mercy and justice for all generations.
Paul Kamau (Guest) on June 23, 2020
Trust in the Lord; He knows the way
Charles Mrope (Guest) on June 13, 2020
St. Thomas Aquinas: “As mariners are guided into port by the shining of a star, so Christians are guided to heaven by Mary.”
Rashid (Guest) on May 26, 2020
The Virgin Mary, conceived without sin, is a perfect model of purity, faith, and trust in God's plan.
Lucy Kimotho (Guest) on May 12, 2020
Keep believing, even when it's hard to see the way
Rashid (Guest) on May 4, 2020
Mary's heart was pierced with sorrow, yet she stood steadfast at the foot of the cross, teaching us the strength of love.
Joseph Mallya (Guest) on April 2, 2020
Faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see
Michael Onyango (Guest) on April 2, 2020
He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds
Peter Mwambui (Guest) on March 24, 2020
Mary is the only woman to bear both the Son of God and remain a virgin, a unique and divine privilege.
Husna (Guest) on February 20, 2020
Mary’s divine motherhood places her in a unique relationship with the Holy Trinity, making her the Mother of the Church.
Saidi (Guest) on February 17, 2020
Through the hands of Mary, countless graces flow into the hearts of her children, drawing them closer to Christ.
Kassim (Guest) on January 16, 2020
Mary’s purity and faithfulness are reflected in the title 'Mirror of Justice,' given to her in the Litany of Loreto.
Mary Mrope (Guest) on January 4, 2020
Blessings to you and your family.
Ruth Mtangi (Guest) on January 1, 2020
Immaculate Heart of Mary, pray for the purity of our hearts and souls, that we may live in holiness.
Ruth Mtangi (Guest) on December 25, 2019
In faith, all things are possible
Abdullah (Guest) on December 7, 2019
Mary's intercession is powerful because her heart is so closely united with the heart of her Son.
Carol Nyakio (Guest) on November 13, 2019
Mary’s role as intercessor is powerful because of her unique relationship with Jesus, her Son, who never refuses her requests.
Maida (Guest) on November 10, 2019
The Blessed Virgin Mary is venerated in the Church as the Queen of Heaven and Earth.
Sharon Kibiru (Guest) on October 17, 2019
With God, all things are possible
Joseph Kiwanga (Guest) on October 13, 2019
Mary, Queen of Families, pray for unity, love, and peace within all households.
Betty Kimaro (Guest) on September 23, 2019
Praise the Lord!
Mary Kidata (Guest) on September 16, 2019
Mary’s divine motherhood made her the favored daughter of the Father, and she remained ever faithful to His will.
Christopher Oloo (Guest) on September 15, 2019
In her humility, Mary shows us the way to participate in God’s plan of salvation, by surrendering our will to God’s will, as she did.
Mwanajuma (Guest) on September 14, 2019
Mary is the new Eve, whose obedience to God contrasts with Eve's disobedience, bringing grace where there was once sin.
Bahati (Guest) on September 9, 2019
In her humility, Mary teaches us how to love God above all things, with purity of heart and soul.
Shani (Guest) on July 28, 2019
The doctrine of the Assumption teaches that Mary was taken body and soul into heaven at the end of her earthly life.
Muslima (Guest) on July 22, 2019
To love and honor Mary is to walk in the path of grace, following her example of unwavering faith and humility.
Rose Waithera (Guest) on July 15, 2019
Mary’s maternal care extends to all of humanity, as she continually prays for the salvation of souls and leads us closer to her Son.