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?
Athumani (Guest) on June 2, 2017
St. Gregory of Nyssa: โShe who bore the Creator in her arms was treated by Him as His chosen one, and so she reigns with Him in glory.โ
Lucy Wangui (Guest) on May 27, 2017
Blessed Mother, pray for the sick, that they may receive healing and comfort in their afflictions.
Patrick Mutua (Guest) on May 20, 2017
God love never fails.
Mwakisu (Guest) on May 13, 2017
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.
Mwanais (Guest) on May 13, 2017
Mary, Mother of God, pray for me, that I may always seek to do the will of your Son and live in His love.
Alice Jebet (Guest) on May 11, 2017
St. Catherine of Siena: โMary, the gentle and loving Mother, guides us always toward her Son, Jesus, showing us the way to salvation.โ
Lydia Mzindakaya (Guest) on May 7, 2017
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
Anna Kibwana (Guest) on April 25, 2017
God is faithful; He will never leave you nor forsake you
Esther Nyambura (Guest) on April 6, 2017
Faith grows stronger in trials
Elizabeth Mtei (Guest) on March 19, 2017
St. Therese of Lisieux: โWhat a joy to remember that Mary is our Mother! Since she loves us and knows our weakness, what have we to fear?โ
Faith Kariuki (Guest) on March 7, 2017
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
Jafari (Guest) on February 24, 2017
Maryโs participation in the Passion of Christ was not just as a witness, but as a mother whose heart suffered alongside her Son for the salvation of humanity.
Edward Chepkoech (Guest) on February 16, 2017
Holy Mary, pray for the conversion of sinners and lead them to the mercy of your Son.
Farida (Guest) on February 15, 2017
Mary's perpetual virginity is a sign of her complete dedication and consecration to God.
Mwagonda (Guest) on February 14, 2017
Through her acceptance of Godโs will, Mary became the Mother of the Redeemer, bringing the Savior into human history.
Nora Kidata (Guest) on February 7, 2017
God has a purpose even in your pain
Patrick Akech (Guest) on February 6, 2017
Grace and peace be with you.
Bahati (Guest) on January 28, 2017
St. Elizabeth Ann Seton: โMary, keep me close to your Son, my beloved Savior, who saved me by His love and sacrifice.โ
Zakaria (Guest) on January 23, 2017
Maryโs role as a mother extends beyond Jesus to all believers, making her the spiritual mother of all Christians.
Charles Mrope (Guest) on January 10, 2017
St. Augustine: โMary is the flower of the field from whom bloomed the precious lily of the valley.โ
Mary Njeri (Guest) on December 10, 2016
Even a mustard seed of faith can move mountains
Mchuma (Guest) on December 4, 2016
Maryโs cooperation with Godโs will did not end at the Cross; she continues to intercede for us, praying for our salvation before the throne of God.
Latifa (Guest) on December 3, 2016
Mary stood at the foot of the Cross, sharing in the sufferings of Jesus, offering her maternal love and sorrow for the redemption of the world.
Ramadhan (Guest) on November 10, 2016
Mary is often depicted as a gentle and compassionate intercessor, always bringing our needs before her Son, Jesus.
Stephen Kangethe (Guest) on November 5, 2016
Mary, the humble handmaid of the Lord, was exalted to the highest glory as the Queen of Heaven.
Ramadhan (Guest) on November 3, 2016
Mary's motherhood was not only physical but also spiritual, as she nurtured the early Church with her prayers and guidance.
Nancy Kawawa (Guest) on October 24, 2016
Hope is the anchor for the soul
Peter Tibaijuka (Guest) on October 21, 2016
The Blessed Virgin Mary is the Ark of the New Covenant, the dwelling place of God among men.
Hashim (Guest) on October 20, 2016
Mary participated in the mystery of the Incarnation, by providing her own flesh for the Word made flesh, Jesus Christ.
Catherine Mkumbo (Guest) on October 9, 2016
The Holy Spirit continually worked in Mary, guiding her in faith, and filling her with wisdom and strength.
Nchi (Guest) on September 20, 2016
St. Francis of Assisi: โWhen I say Hail Mary, the heavens bow down, and the angels rejoice; the earth rejoices and trembles, and hell fears.โ
Stephen Kikwete (Guest) on August 27, 2016
Mary, Star of the Sea, pray for those who are lost and searching for direction, that they may find their way to Christ.
Betty Kimaro (Guest) on July 30, 2016
Mary, Mother of the Church, pray for all priests and religious, that they may faithfully serve God's people.
Fatuma (Guest) on July 27, 2016
As the Mother of the Suffering Savior, Maryโs heart was pierced with sorrow, but she remained united to Jesusโ redemptive sacrifice.
Grace Mushi (Guest) on July 6, 2016
Mother of Mercy, pray for those who are lost and bring them to the light of Christ.
Furaha (Guest) on July 4, 2016
Blessed Virgin, pray for all those discerning their vocation, that they may follow God's call with courage.
Frank Sokoine (Guest) on July 3, 2016
The holy Virgin Mary stands as a fortress of faith and a beacon of hope, inspiring all who seek her Son.
Ruth Kibona (Guest) on July 1, 2016
Maryโs relationship with the Trinity is a testament to the power of humility and trust in Godโs plan.
Baridi (Guest) on June 27, 2016
Mary, Queen of Angels, pray for our protection from all evil and temptation.
Saidi (Guest) on June 17, 2016
Mary was born in a humble home, but her faithfulness made her exalted by God as the Queen of Heaven.
Mzee (Guest) on May 28, 2016
Her virtues shine like stars, illuminating the way to Christ and encouraging us to follow in her footsteps.
Lucy Wangui (Guest) on May 8, 2016
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
George Mallya (Guest) on April 19, 2016
In Mary, the Holy Trinityโs love for humanity is revealed, as she carried the fullness of Godโs presence in her womb.
Mwagonda (Guest) on April 11, 2016
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.
Mary Kendi (Guest) on April 5, 2016
God's promises are always true
Charles Mchome (Guest) on March 31, 2016
Even a mustard seed of faith can move mountains
Patrick Mutua (Guest) on March 26, 2016
At the Annunciation, Maryโs humble obedience made her the vessel through which the salvation of humanity would come.
Jacob Kiplangat (Guest) on March 25, 2016
Mary is the bridge that connects heaven and earth, bringing divine grace into the hearts of all who call upon her.
Mchawi (Guest) on March 1, 2016
The Blessed Virgin is the ladder by which we ascend to the glory of God.
Stephen Malecela (Guest) on February 22, 2016
In Mary, the fullness of the Holy Trinityโs love is revealed, as she was chosen to bear the Savior of the world.
Anna Malela (Guest) on January 18, 2016
Mary's Immaculate Heart is a symbol of her pure love for God and for all humanity.
Stephen Amollo (Guest) on January 9, 2016
Grace and peace be with you.
Mwanakhamis (Guest) on January 7, 2016
As the Mother of God, Mary shared a unique relationship with Jesus, the second Person of the Holy Trinity.
Sharifa (Guest) on January 4, 2016
At Calvary, Maryโs presence at the Cross symbolized her full participation in the Passion and death of Jesus, offering her own suffering in union with His.
Abdullah (Guest) on December 31, 2015
The Holy Trinity entrusted Mary with the care of Jesus, and she faithfully fulfilled her role as His earthly mother.
Jabir (Guest) on December 7, 2015
Mother Mary, intercede for us and bring our prayers to the throne of grace.
Dorothy Mwakalindile (Guest) on November 19, 2015
We are saved by His mercy, not by our deeds
Simon Kiprono (Guest) on November 17, 2015
Walk by faith, not by sight
Hawa (Guest) on November 13, 2015
Mary is the Mother of God, the purest of all creatures, the holiest of all women, chosen from eternity to bring Christ into the world.
Joyce Mussa (Guest) on November 3, 2015
Mary, Ark of the New Covenant, pray for the Church to remain steadfast in faith and truth.