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?
Sofia (Guest) on October 30, 2015
At Pentecost, Mary prayed with the apostles, preparing them to spread the Gospel of salvation to all nations.
John Mwangi (Guest) on October 27, 2015
The Holy Spirit sanctified Mary from the moment of her conception, preparing her to bear the Son of God.
Rose Amukowa (Guest) on October 19, 2015
St. Dominic: “One day, through the Rosary and the Scapular, Our Lady will save the world.”
Peter Otieno (Guest) on September 27, 2015
Mary's 'yes' to the Angel Gabriel at the Annunciation shows her complete trust and obedience to God's will.
Fikiri (Guest) on September 15, 2015
St. John of the Cross: “The soul that is quick to turn to speak with Mary, when tempted, will certainly never fall.”
Joyce Aoko (Guest) on September 12, 2015
The Father’s love for Mary is beyond measure, for He chose her to be the Mother of His only Son.
Samson Mahiga (Guest) on August 25, 2015
The Blessed Mother is a shining example of discipleship, surrendering her entire being to the will of God.
Anna Kibwana (Guest) on August 15, 2015
You are never alone; God is with you
Joseph Njoroge (Guest) on July 18, 2015
God's mercies are new every morning
Margaret Mahiga (Guest) on July 12, 2015
From the moment of her conception, Mary was preserved from sin, a singular grace granted to her by God.
Mariam Kawawa (Guest) on June 23, 2015
Her Immaculate Heart is a safe refuge for sinners, drawing us away from sin and into the arms of her Son.
Nora Lowassa (Guest) on June 19, 2015
In her Assumption, Mary shows us the destiny that awaits all who are faithful to God's will.
Robert Okello (Guest) on June 18, 2015
In Mary, we see the Father’s creative power, the Son’s redeeming love, and the Spirit’s sanctifying grace.
David Musyoka (Guest) on May 18, 2015
Praise the Lord!
Khamis (Guest) on May 6, 2015
Blessed Mother, pray for the youth, that they may seek to follow Christ in their lives.
Alex Nakitare (Guest) on May 3, 2015
Let your faith be bigger than your fears
Charles Mrope (Guest) on May 1, 2015
Mary’s life was one of suffering and sorrow, especially as she witnessed the crucifixion of her Son, but she remained steadfast in her faith.
Mwanais (Guest) on April 26, 2015
Mary was chosen by God to be the Mother of Jesus, making her the most blessed among women.
Jane Muthui (Guest) on April 12, 2015
Mary is honored as the 'Mother of the Church,' as she cares for all Christians with maternal love and protection.
Monica Lissu (Guest) on April 2, 2015
Mary’s participation in salvation was both physical and spiritual, as she not only bore the Savior but also united her will perfectly with God’s plan.