December 6th
David was helping his father moving items in the loft. David loved rummaging through boxes, there was so much to look at. Amongst the Christmas decorations was the Crib box, complete with star and figures. The figures were plain plaster casts and David commented…
“Were these never painted Dad?”
“That’s the only way I ever remember them. They belonged to my grandparents, do be careful.”
“Mary’s dress should be blue; we always see Mary in blue – can I paint them?”
“Well, I would rather you didn’t – I quite like them the way they are.”
It is believed that Mary was between 12 and 14 years old when she gave birth to Jesus the Son of God. Difficult for us to imagine, which may be why she looks much older in Nativity figures and paintings. The blue paint used originates from Lapis, a very expensive pigment denoting the importance of Mary and her role.
Mary has been referred to as Our Lady of Sorrows, though there would be joyful times too. Mary was to be with her son, Christ Jesus, through his suffering and to the end at the foot of the cross; feeling the weight of his suffering.
Many Icons and images of Mary show her role as pointing the way towards Jesus the Christ who is the source of salvation for mankind. The Greek words used are; Theotokos (Mother of God) and Hodegetria (She who points the way).
Luke 1:46-55
Mary’s Song
And Mary said:
“My soul glorifies the Lord and my spirit rejoices in God my Saviour, for he has been mindful of the humble state of his servant. From now on all generations will call me blessed, for the Mighty One has done great things for me – holy is his name. His mercy extends to those who fear him, from generation to generation. He has performed mighty deeds with his arm; he has scattered those who are proud in their inmost thoughts. He has brought down rulers from their thrones but has lifted up the humble. He has filled the hungry with good things but has sent the rich away empty. He has helped his servant Israel, remembering to be merciful to Abraham and his descendants forever, just as he promised our ancestors.”
Prayer
Holy Mary Mother of God, thank you for pointing the way to Christ our Saviour. In reflecting upon your joys and sorrows, may we be drawn closer in faith and penitence. Amen
Conversations are two way
We welcome your comments. Tomorrow – Are we there yet?