Today is the feast of the Assumption of Mary.  On November 1, 1950, Pope Pius XII defined as true and as part of the essential teaching of the Church that Mary was assumed corporeally into heaven.  This was another gift to Mary in virtue of her fiat, her consent to be the mother of the Savior.  In her acceptance, Mary was grateful and was confident that God would provide whatever was necessary for carrying out this awesome responsibility.

It would seem that we should be of similar dispositions in receiving God’s gifts.  Yet we often complicate the simple process of gift reception.  We may think ourselves undeserving of the gift.  We may wonder why God is giving us this gift.  In reality, we may be afraid that there are strings attached and that God will not provide the wherewithal for whatever might be asked of us.  Mary did not ask whether she was deserving, and Mary trusted in God’s love and care for her.  We might examine ourselves on both counts.

On the subject of gifts . . .  In today’s Gospel, Mary sought out Elizabeth to be of assistance to her and to share their joy.  A beautiful experience of friendship.  A wonderful example of gift which God gives freely and without complication.  The receiving of God’s gifts is a simple process.  Mary is our model.