The Firstfruits of Jesus’ Resurrection

Rev 11:19; 12:1.3-6.10, Psalm: 44, 1Cor 15,20-27, Lk 1:39-56

Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ, today, in solemnity and joy, we celebrate the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, a momentous event that reflects the profound mystery of our faith and our hope in the resurrection. As we honor Mother Mary, the Woman clothed with the sun, we are invited to contemplate the firstfruits of Jesus’ resurrection that she so beautifully embodies.

In the Book of Revelation, we encounter this striking image of the Woman, adorned with the sun and standing on the moon, crowned with twelve stars. This Woman is not just a figure of power and majesty; she is a symbol of hope and promise. She is the New Ark of the Covenant, the vessel through which the Word became flesh. As the Ark in Heaven, Mary carries the very essence of our salvation within her, and through her Assumption, she provides us with a glimpse into the heavenly reality that awaits us all. We cannot speak of Mary without acknowledging the great adversary, the Dragon, depicted in Revelation. The Dragon represents the forces of evil that seek to thwart God’s plan. Yet, in this cosmic battle, we see Mary’s triumph. Her Assumption signifies not only her personal victory but also the humiliation of Satan. Mary’s elevation into heaven serves as a powerful reminder that evil does not have the final say. Through her, we are reassured that the light of Christ overcomes the darkness of sin and death.

As we reflect on the words of St. Paul in his letter to the Corinthians, we hear the proclamation that Christ has been raised from the dead, the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep. This powerful declaration reminds us that in Christ, death is not the end. Instead, it is the beginning of a new life, a life that we are invited to share in. Just as Christ is the firstfruits, Mary becomes the first harvest, the one who shows us what it means to be fully alive in God’s presence. In her Assumption, God declares with thunderous joy: “This is what I destined for humanity! This is the power of My Son’s resurrection!” St. Paul tells us that in Christ shall all be made alive, each in proper order. The order of resurrection reflects the divine plan, where Christ leads the way, followed by Mary, and eventually all of us who believe. Mary’s Assumption is a foretaste of what awaits us. The final enemy, death, is destroyed, swallowed up in the victory of Christ.

As we celebrate Mary’s Assumption, we affirm our belief in the resurrection and the life to come. It is a call to cultivate resurrection hope within our hearts. Let us take a moment to reflect on the Magnificat, Mary’s Song, a hymn of praise that echoes through the ages. In this beautiful prayer, Mary proclaims the greatness of the Lord and rejoices in God her Savior. The Magnificat serves as a prophecy of her own Assumption. As she journeys through life, she carries within her the promise of resurrection and the hope of salvation for all humanity. Just as the Ark of the Covenant journeyed through the wilderness, so too did Mary journey through the trials and tribulations of her life, always trusting in God’s plan. As we meditate on the Magnificat, let us commit to proclaiming it daily. Let it be a source of strength and inspiration for us as we navigate our own paths.

In our daily lives, let us strive to become “arks of the covenant,” vessels of God’s grace and love. As Pope Francis said, “Like Mary, be a bearer of Christ to a world in need of tenderness” (Homily, Jan 1, 2023). Each of us is called to carry the light of Christ into our world, reflecting His love and mercy to those around us. In doing so, we actively participate in the defeat of the Dragon. We are reminded that our battles against sin and despair are not fought alone. We have the intercession of our Blessed Mother, who stands with us in our struggles, guiding us towards the victory that is ours in Christ.

Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ, as we celebrate the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, let us embrace our identity as children of the resurrection. Let us cultivate a hope that transcends the challenges we face. As we look to Mary, let us remember that she is not only our Mother but also our model of faith. Her Assumption is a promise that we, too, are destined for glory. Let us go forth today with renewed hope, inspired by the Woman clothed with the sun, knowing that in Christ we have been given the victory over death. Let us live each day as a witness to the resurrection, proclaiming the Magnificat with our lives and constantly crushing the head of the Dragon through our faith and love. May God bless you all as we celebrate this glorious mystery, and may the Assumption of our Blessed Mother fill our hearts with joy and peace now and forever. Amen.