Solemnity of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary
R. The queen stands at your right hand, arrayed in gold.
Written by Eric Wilkes
The Solemnity of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary celebrated today shines as a radiant testament to the unique and exalted role Mary holds in the Christian story. This solemn feast day commemorates the belief that, at the end of her earthly journey, Mary was assumed, body and soul, into the splendor of heaven. Rooted in historic tradition and interwoven with scriptural references, the Assumption is a celebration of hope, transformation, and the promise of eternal life.
The scriptural roots of the Assumption are too vast for this post but I encourage you to do some personal research on this incredible teaching of the Church. The one we’re highlighting today is Psalm 45. “The Queen stands at your right hand, arrayed in gold.” This psalm beautifully depicts the royal splendor and honor associated with the Queen in the Davidic tradition. These verses capture the majestic presence of the Queen Mother at the right hand of the King, adorned in gold and arrayed with honor. In a parallel manner, the Assumption envisions Mary, the Queen of Heaven, being lifted up to the heavenly court, adorned with divine grace and enveloped in the brilliance of her Son's glory.
The Assumption is firmly anchored in the Gospel of Luke, which emphasizes Mary's pivotal role in God's plan through the Annunciation (Luke 1:38). This moment, marked by Mary's unwavering "Yes" to God, ignited her journey as the Mother of God and positioned her as a beacon of faith and obedience for all of us seeking to live a life fully surrendered and trusting in God’s divine plan.
Beyond its scriptural foundations, the Assumption points to the overall theme of hope and transformation within our Catholic faith. Mary's assumption serves as a powerful reminder of the potential for sanctification and renewal within every one of our lives. Just as Mary was lifted into heavenly glory, we are encouraged to embrace the transformative power of divine grace, which allows Jesus to live and dwell in our hearts as he dwelt with Mary, the Ark of the New Covenant.
Moreover, the Assumption underscores Mary's ongoing maternal care and intercession for all of us. Just as she did when she stood with the beloved apostle by the cross during Jesus' crucifixion (John 19:25-27), Mary continually intercedes for us, leading us toward the salvation and splendor of our heavenly home.
The Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary is a feast that embodies hope, heavenly splendor, and the profound connection between the human and divine. With roots in scripture, especially in the beautifully regal imagery of Psalm 45, this celebration invites us to reflect on Mary's unique role as the Queen of Heaven and her unwavering fidelity to God's plan which led to the Assumption of her body and soul. As we honor the Assumption, we are inspired to emulate Mary's faith, embrace the transformative grace of God, and anticipate the fulfillment of the promise of eternal life.
What virtues of Mary inspire me to live the rest of my life focused on growing in holiness and obtaining heaven by God’s grace and my “yes” to Him in my words and actions?
Where have I seen most the splendor and beauty of God visually or in specific circumstances throughout my life?
How can I, just as Jesus and John did, embrace Mary as my mother and allow her presence to comfort me and encourage me in my journey toward my heavenly home?
Eric Wilkes is a Louisiana-born and Chicago-based artist, musician and producer serving churches, communities, and ministries on an international level. He has been an artist, writer, co-writer, instrumentalist, and producer for several projects through NOVUM RECORDS, and is a part of the indie rock duo NOVUM. When he’s not playing music, he enjoys spending quality time with his wife, Cori, his family, and his close friends relaxing and enjoying good conversations. When Eric needs medicine for his soul he finds it in new places, sunny days, trips to the ocean, chai tea lattes, playing piano in empty churches and late night adoration chapel visits. Check out his music on Spotify and Apple Music, and follow Eric on Instagram.
Pray with today’s psalm.