Today we commemorate the Assumption of Mary, who was presumed dead yet assumed into heaven. The Eastern Church describes it as awakening from sleep.

The catechism says: “She was preserved free from all stain of original sin, was taken up body and soul into heavenly glory, and exalted by the Lord as Queen over all things, so that she might be the more fully conformed to her Son.”

And so the Church solemnizes this historical event that recalls for us the power and the glory of the Risen Life. “For the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin is a singular participation in the Resurrection and the anticipation of the resurrection of other Christians.”

But even in her glory, Mary wants nothing but to point to her Son, “rather, blessed are those who hear the word of God and observe it.” Her whole heart is consecrated in the words of the magnificat “God the Almighty has done great things for me, holy is his name.” Each of us as a consequence must look at our own life through the eyes of Mary. What God did in her; He does for us.

Mary’s words, her attitude of life, gives us a new perspective for living. This attitude is one that expresses an interior faith, a faith that is a light for daily living not for ourselves but for others.

Let our focus be toward heaven, always pointing with Mary to Jesus so others will come to know the Glory of God and enjoy being called blessed for all generations.