Today we celebrate the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception.
When we pray the Rosary we pray those words given to us by Saint Gabriel, “Hail Mary, full of grace.”
What does it mean for one to be found full of grace? Mary was found to be “full of grace” because she was filled with the presence of God. Seeing that she is most perfectly filled with God’s presence there is no room within her for sin. Each us have been touched by the reality of sin. Unlike us she is that most perfect creation of God which was preserved from the stain of sin for she would be the Mother of God.
This statement made by Gabriel is a reversal of roles. Throughout the Old Testament it was humans who would revere angels for they were closest to God and thus partake most fully of the divine light. Gabriel’s statement shows that even the angels come to revere Mary. She was found to be “full of grace” and thus it is right and just that we give her proper devotion.
When we think of sin we often think of those transgressions that one makes against God. Not only did Mary never consent to sin, but she was also conceived free of original sin. When an individual is baptized all sin including original sin is washed away. This was not necessary for Mary for she was that perfect creation who God had been set apart to be the mother of His Son.
This celebration is most important for us for the Immaculate Conception is the beginning of our salvation. Through it we get that mystery of faith which we will soon celebrate, the Nativity of the Lord. Mary remained open to the gift of God’s grace throughout her whole life. Likewise, we must open ourself up to this gift of His grace. We cannot turn inwardly upon self, but must be willing to remain open to God. This is preciously what Mary was willing to do.
May this celebration of Mary assist us in opening our heart to such graces. May she pray for us in order that we may realize that such a reality has been extended to us if only we would dare to place our trust in God and the gift of His grace. Truly Mary was “full of grace,” we forever profess this reality through this celebration of her Immaculate Conception.
Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners now and at the hour of our death. Amen.
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