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?
Nancy Kabura (Guest) on July 14, 2019
Trust in His plan.
Hashim (Guest) on July 10, 2019
The Holy Spirit descended upon Mary, and through her, the Word became flesh and dwelt among us.
Samuel Omondi (Guest) on July 1, 2019
In her role as Mother of God, Mary shares a unique relationship with each Person of the Holy Trinity.
Joyce Nkya (Guest) on July 1, 2019
Faith grows stronger in trials
Joyce Nkya (Guest) on June 28, 2019
Even a mustard seed of faith can move mountains
Rashid (Guest) on June 21, 2019
Mary's love for humanity is endless; she intercedes for us tirelessly before the throne of grace.
Anna Sumari (Guest) on May 29, 2019
In the Gospel of Luke, Elizabeth calls Mary 'blessed among women,' recognizing her unique role in God's plan of salvation.
Mercy Atieno (Guest) on May 18, 2019
St. Ignatius of Loyola: “Never was a sinner so lost that Mary could not save him through her intercession.”
Rose Mwinuka (Guest) on April 27, 2019
Praying for you 🙏
Esther Nyambura (Guest) on April 5, 2019
Mary, Queen of Peace, pray for an end to all violence and war in our world.
Philip Nyaga (Guest) on February 10, 2019
God bless you!
Dorothy Nkya (Guest) on January 19, 2019
God's mercy is new every morning
Chris Okello (Guest) on January 12, 2019
As the spouse of the Holy Spirit, Mary was filled with divine love and grace, nurturing the life of Christ within her.
Simon Kiprono (Guest) on January 11, 2019
St. Louis de Montfort: “The more we honor the Blessed Virgin, the more we honor Jesus Christ, because we honor Mary only that we may the more perfectly honor Jesus, since we go to her only as the way by which we are to find the end we are seeking, which is Jesus.”
Zawadi (Guest) on December 18, 2018
Our Lady of Sorrows, pray for those who are mourning, that they may be consoled in their grief.
Jane Muthui (Guest) on December 11, 2018
In Mary's hands, we find the means to grow in grace and holiness, for she is full of God's divine love.
Frank Macha (Guest) on November 26, 2018
In His mercy, God forgives and restores
Betty Cheruiyot (Guest) on November 17, 2018
No one loved Jesus more than Mary, His mother, and no one loves us more than she does in heaven.
Daniel Obura (Guest) on November 16, 2018
God's promises are always true
Miriam Mchome (Guest) on November 5, 2018
Virgin Mary, pray for the souls in purgatory, that they may quickly be welcomed into the joy of heaven.
Joseph Kawawa (Guest) on September 18, 2018
Your story isn't over; God is still writing it
Victor Kimario (Guest) on September 18, 2018
The Angel Gabriel hailed Mary as 'full of grace,' acknowledging her special role in God's divine plan.
Raha (Guest) on September 7, 2018
Mary’s role as Mediatrix of all graces flows from her participation in Christ’s salvific work, distributing the graces He won for us through her intercession.
David Sokoine (Guest) on September 2, 2018
At the Wedding of Cana, Mary’s intercession initiated Jesus’ first public miracle, which revealed His divine mission and power.
Moses Kipkemboi (Guest) on August 29, 2018
The Holy Trinity exalted Mary, granting her a special place in the divine plan of salvation.
Francis Mtangi (Guest) on August 26, 2018
God's promises are always true
John Malisa (Guest) on August 26, 2018
God is faithful; He will never leave you nor forsake you
Nassar (Guest) on August 19, 2018
Mary is the daughter of God the Father, the mother of God the Son, and the spouse of God the Holy Spirit.
Victor Kamau (Guest) on August 1, 2018
His mercy endures forever
Mzee (Guest) on July 21, 2018
Mary’s title, 'Our Lady of Sorrows,' reflects her deep participation in the suffering of her Son for the salvation of the world.
Samson Mahiga (Guest) on June 25, 2018
Mother of Perpetual Help, pray for me in my time of need and strengthen me with your love.
Hashim (Guest) on June 5, 2018
As the Ark of the New Covenant, Mary carried within her the Savior of the world, becoming an integral part of God’s salvific plan.
Charles Mchome (Guest) on June 3, 2018
Mary’s unique relationship with the Holy Trinity is a mystery of divine love, revealing God’s plan for humanity’s salvation.
Mwajuma (Guest) on May 30, 2018
Mary is our heavenly mother, who tenderly watches over us, bringing our prayers before the throne of God.
Mwafirika (Guest) on May 26, 2018
St. Maximilian Kolbe: “Never be afraid of loving the Blessed Virgin too much. You can never love her more than Jesus did.”
Violet Mumo (Guest) on May 23, 2018
Mary’s Assumption is a sign of the resurrection of the body that all faithful Christians hope to experience one day.
George Wanjala (Guest) on April 21, 2018
The Catholic Church celebrates many feasts in honor of Mary, including the Solemnity of the Assumption and the Feast of the Immaculate Conception.
John Lissu (Guest) on April 2, 2018
Mary’s participation in salvation was not passive; she actively cooperated with God’s plan, offering her Son to the Father for the salvation of all.
James Mduma (Guest) on March 21, 2018
Keep believing, even when it's hard to see the way
Kheri (Guest) on March 6, 2018
Mary, Refuge of Sinners, pray for all those struggling with sin, that they may turn back to God with repentant hearts.
Joseph Mallya (Guest) on February 16, 2018
The Lord is near to all who call on Him
Peter Mwambui (Guest) on January 15, 2018
Mary is the mother who comforts us in our sorrows and rejoices with us in our victories, always leading us to Christ.
Khalifa (Guest) on January 14, 2018
The Holy Spirit made Mary’s womb the sacred place where the Son of God took on human flesh.
Margaret Mahiga (Guest) on December 7, 2017
Mother of Divine Grace, pray for us, that we may receive God's blessings in abundance.
Margaret Anyango (Guest) on November 30, 2017
Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding
Christopher Oloo (Guest) on November 26, 2017
In our weakness, God's mercy gives us strength
David Ochieng (Guest) on November 24, 2017
Mary’s assumption into heaven is a sign of her ongoing participation in salvation history, as she continues to intercede for us before the throne of God.
Masika (Guest) on November 22, 2017
In Mary, we find the perfect example of faith, humility, and obedience to God's will.
Francis Mtangi (Guest) on November 15, 2017
Through her yes at the Annunciation, Mary opened the door to salvation, allowing Christ to enter the world and fulfill His mission of redemption.
George Wanjala (Guest) on November 9, 2017
Walk by faith, not by sight
Yahya (Guest) on October 24, 2017
Mary’s fiat, her \'yes\' to the Angel Gabriel, began her active participation in God’s plan of salvation, allowing Christ to be born into the world.
Benjamin Kibicho (Guest) on September 19, 2017
Mary, the Mother of God, is the sure refuge of sinners, always ready to lead us to repentance and mercy.
Athumani (Guest) on September 5, 2017
Mary, our heavenly Mother, please pray for all those who are suffering, that they may find comfort in Christ.
James Kawawa (Guest) on September 1, 2017
God bless you!
Robert Ndunguru (Guest) on August 14, 2017
Keep the faith!
Raphael Okoth (Guest) on August 1, 2017
God's mercy is greater than any mistake
Janet Sumaye (Guest) on July 14, 2017
In her immaculate womb, Mary bore the Light of the World, becoming the new Eve who brought life where there was death.
Margaret Mahiga (Guest) on July 4, 2017
In faith, all things are possible
Kazija (Guest) on July 3, 2017
As the new Eve, Mary’s obedience to God contrasts with the disobedience of the first Eve, bringing life where there was death.
Anna Mahiga (Guest) on June 10, 2017
St. Bernard of Clairvaux: “In dangers, in doubts, in difficulties, think of Mary, call upon Mary. Let not her name depart from your lips, never suffer it to leave your heart.”