August 15, 2017 - The Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary - Biblical and theological proofs

The dogma of the Assumption of Mary is a point of contention between Catholics and Protestants. Non-Catholics often claim that there is no biblical evidence for Mary’s Assumption.

I’d bet that most Catholics are not very familiar with the biblical data. And that’s not necessarily terrible. We trust the Church, we love the Blessed Mother. Her Assumption seems logical. That’s enough for most us. As the saying goes: “For some, no proof is necessary. For others, no proof is ever enough.”

But just in case you are ever in the position to explain this dogma, here are some key points from the Scriptures.

First, the bible is very clear that the bodily assumption into heaven is possible, in fact, there is biblical precedent for it. Enoch and Elijah are both brought to heaven by God. Thessalonians foretells how Christians still living at the time of Christ’s return will be “caught up to the heavens”. And St. Paul in second Corinthians describes his mystical experience of being taken to heaven, whether in the body or out of the body he doesn’t know, but he doesn’t rule out the possibility of a bodily journey to heaven.

Now, the Bible doesn’t describe Mary being taken to heaven by God. But in the book of Revelation, which we read on this feast, the Mother of the Savior of the World is in heaven, bodily. And beautiful Psalm 45, speaks of the queen standing at the right hand of God, in the eternal palace of the king.
So no one can really claim that this feast is unbiblical.

Why is this dogma important? Why is this feast important? First, it is never unfitting to celebrate the work of God. God made Mary a worthy mother for his son, full of grace and virtue, a heart in full communion with His Holy Will. Who can argue with the fittingness of Mary being brought into heaven, to experience what we all hope to experience in eternity, bodily and spiritual life in the eternal presence? In celebrating this feast, we proclaim the good works of God to all generations.

Secondly, in light of attempts to recreate Christianity, severing it from its ancient roots, this beautiful feast is so important because it keeps us connected to the Apostolic faith. For this feast is the oldest feast of Our Lady. Sadly, so many modern Christians do not fittingly honor Our Lady. But the Church without Our Lady, is not the Church.

Thirdly, this feast underscores the reasonableness of our faith. The doctrines of our faith are supported by the scriptures, and attested to by the saints throughout the centuries.

Fourthly, this feast is so important because of its message of hope. Where she has gone we hope to follow. This feast is a pledge: loving God as Mary loves God leads to heaven. Mary's Assumption is God's promise to us: every Christian who follows Mary's path of humility and fidelity to God's will can look forward to following her into the glories and joys of heaven.

This promise of God, this beautiful truth, is so important for us to remember in the dark times of life, when war, violence, and persecution surround us. Our mother is the lighthouse on the stormy sea, the star who guides us home.

We are reminded to keep our hearts and minds directed toward Mary. She will never lead us astray. Through this great feast, through our daily devotions, our rosaries, may we know her constant help and protection in the Christian life, for the glory of God and salvation of souls.