hope — even under the circumstances
"God chose us in Him before the world began, to be holy and blameless in His sight." —Ephesians 1:4
The Lord created the human race to be with Him in Paradise. However, because of original sin, we:
- lost Paradise,
- severely wounded our human nature,
- fell from God's grace, and
- brought into our lives fear (Gn 3:10), shame (Gn 3:10), blame (Gn 3:12ff), pain (Gn 3:16, 19), violence (Gn 4:8), death (see Rm 6:23), self-deception, self-hatred, slavery, alienation, even damnation, and so much more.
Original sin is the most depressing fact of life. When we realize this, we cry out: "What a wretched man I am! Who can free me from this body under the power of death?" (Rm 7:24) Jesus Christ alone has freed us from original sin and its devastating effects. In fact, Jesus freed His mother Mary from ever having original sin. She was immaculately conceived. Mary is therefore "a sign of sure hope" (see Lumen Gentium, 68) for all of us that original sin with its death and damnation need not be the final word. Jesus is Lord of all, including original sin. "He is always able to save those who approach God through Him" (Heb 7:25). Jesus is our Lord and Savior. Mary Immaculate is a sign of hope pointing us to her Son, Jesus. No matter how shattered your life, broken your world, and sinful your society, look to Jesus and rejoice.
Prayer: Father, on this holy day, make me immaculate as I repent of my sins, confess them, and receive Your forgiveness.
Promise: "Nothing is impossible with God." —Lk 1:37
Praise: "The most Blessed Virgin Mary was, from the first moment of her conception, by a singular grace and privilege of almighty God and by virtue of the merits of Jesus Christ, Savior of the human race, preserved immune from all stain of original sin" (see Catechism of the Catholic Church, 491). Praise You, Almighty God, for the sure hope You give us through Mary. Alleluia!
Rescript: †Most Reverend Joseph R. Binzer, Auxiliary Bishop, Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, April 2, 2019
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