in his image
"…to share the image of His Son…" —Romans 8:29
Mary certainly was conformed to the image of the Son of God (see Rm 8:29, RNAB). Jesus shares Mary's DNA, and so Mary shares in Jesus' image most perfectly.
From her birth, which we celebrate today, Mary was conformed to the image of God. Her birth prepares the way for the events of our salvation: the Incarnation, death, and Resurrection of Jesus, the Word-made-flesh (Jn 1:14). Mary conformed so completely to God's image that she literally carried within her womb Jesus, the Image and Exact Representation of the Father's Being (Heb 1:3; cf Col 1:19).
Mary's conformation to God's image and will can be summed up in one word: "Yes". In this way, she perfectly resembles her Son Jesus, Who "was never anything but 'Yes' " (2 Cor 1:19).
Give Mother Mary the birthday present she most desires. Be not conformed to this age (Rm 12:2), but conformed to the image of Mary's Son, Jesus (Rm 8:29). Abandon yourself to the will, heart, and mind of Jesus. Obey Jesus by heeding the words of Mary: "Do whatever [Jesus] tells you" (Jn 2:5).
Prayer: Father, You made me in Your image and likeness (Gn 1:27). May my life of obedient faith give You glory on earth.
Promise: "We know that God makes all things work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to His decree." —Rm 8:28
Praise: The Blessed Virgin Mary felt the joy of the Lord in her utter abandonment to Him.
Reference: (This teaching was submitted by a member of our editorial team.)
Rescript: †Reverend Joseph R. Binzer, Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, February 1, 2011
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