The Blessed Virgin Mary
His Holiness Pope Shenouda III speaks about the Virgin Mary, explaining her unique position and greatness in the mystery of the Divine Incarnation.
He emphasizes that the Virgin was the woman whom God prepared in the fullness of time to bear the great glory associated with the Incarnation.
The Pope connects the Virgin’s greatness with her humility, explaining that great honor requires a humble heart that can bear glory without becoming proud.
This humility appeared in her words, “Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord; let it be to me according to your word,” as she accepted God’s will in a complete life of surrender.
Spiritual Message
The Pope presents the Virgin as a model of humility, not only in her words, but also in her service to others, her praise, and her entire life.
When she learned that Elizabeth needed service, she went to her and remained with her for three months, despite being the mother of the Lord of glory.
The Virgin was also characterized by silence, calmness, and contemplation, keeping things and pondering them in her heart rather than speaking excessively.
Her life in the Temple was also an opportunity for prayer, praise, memorizing the Psalms, and strengthening her relationship with God.
Educational Lesson
The Pope teaches us from the Virgin’s life the importance of spiritual formation from an early age, as well as the importance of solitude, prayer, contemplation, and memorizing the word of God.
He also presents her as a model of complete surrender, as she accepted pregnancy, childbirth, and motherhood, and also accepted traveling and fleeing to Egypt and returning from there according to God’s will.
He emphasizes that true surrender is not merely outward obedience, but an inner acceptance of God’s will even when circumstances are difficult and unclear.
Spiritual Application
The Virgin’s faith teaches us to trust God’s promises even when we do not clearly see their fulfillment.
The Virgin lived through difficult circumstances of poverty, the manger, fleeing, and traveling, yet she did not complain or doubt God.
She also maintained her inner joy and said in her praise, “My spirit rejoices in God my Savior,” despite the circumstances surrounding her.
From the Virgin’s life, we learn humility, purity, service, silence, contemplation, surrender, and steadfastness in faith, and we learn to live with God in every circumstance.
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