The solemnity of Mary, Mother of God (Year C)
Scriptures: Num. 6:22-27; Ps. 67:2-3, 5, 6,8; Gal. 4:4-7; Luke 2:16-21
The name of an individual holds great significance in our societies. It not only provides identity but also a sense of self and belonging to a family or community. Many ancient cultures recognized the deep spiritual aspect behind names, which is why naming ceremonies are seen as important rituals that conferred identity.
In the creation account, man was responsible for naming everything God created on earth. This ability to name was a unique gift from God, rooted in humanity’s nature. It is through naming that man relates to and understands the world. Naming also reflects man’s dominion over creation, as seen when Adam named the animals in the book of the Bible (Gen. 2:19-20).
Furthermore, man has an inherent desire to understand God and His presence in his life. Early on, man sought to know God’s name, to relate to Him more intimately. In Exodus 3:14, when Moses asked God for His name, God revealed Himself as Yahweh, meaning “I AM WHO I AM”—a name signifying self-existence and eternity.
The Old Testament introduces many names of God, each reflecting a different aspect of His nature. These include Elohim (God), Adonai (Lord), and El Shaddai (Almighty God). Each name highlights God’s sovereignty, authority, power, and supremacy. Some names also describe God’s attributes, such as Jehovah-Shalom (The Lord is Peace), Jehovah-Jireh (The Lord Provides), and Jehovah-Rapha (The Lord Heals). These are not God’s proper names but titles expressing His acts and attributes.
In the first reading from the book of Numbers today, God’s name is placed upon His people as a sign of ownership, protection, and a deep, intimate relationship with them (Num. 6:22-27). God asked Moses for the blessings of the priest over his people. It was a threefold blessing of protection, grace, and peace. The Israelites, about to embark on their journey to the Promised Land, were assured that God would bless them with these gifts in His name.
In the Old Testament, God’s name reveals certain truths: He is the Creator, Redeemer, Judge, Shepherd, and King. The general perception of God was that of a strict lawgiver, a seeker of justice and righteousness. People approached Him with awe and reverence, as He was perceived as a transcendent God who revealed Himself in mighty acts. While God’s name was often associated with blessings, the expression that God’s name brings blessings is a rare and significant theme in the Old Testament.
The New Testament completes and fulfills the promises and prophecies of the Old Testament. As the Catechism of the Catholic Church states: “The Old Testament prepares for the New, and the New Testament fulfills the Old; the two shed light on each other; both are the true Word of God” (CCC 140). The promises made in the Old Testament find their fulfillment in Jesus Christ, whose life, death, and resurrection bring the blessings that were only foreshadowed earlier.
Today’s Gospel text says that Mary and Joseph named Jesus as it was revealed to them before his conception. They named him Jesus as per the direction of the angels. The name of Jesus—which means “God saves”—is the ultimate fulfillment of God’s promises. As Matthew 1:21 proclaims, “You shall call His name Jesus, for He will save His people from their sins.” The New Testament is filled with accounts of the power of Jesus’ name. St. Paul declares that the name of Jesus is above every other name, and that every knee should bend before Him (Philip. 2:9-10). The apostles performed miracles and healed the sick in the name of Jesus (Acts 4:12), and Jesus Himself assures us, “If you ask in My name, I will do it” (John 14:13).
The name of Jesus is far more than just a title—it is a prayer of blessings. It embodies God’s love, mercy, and salvation. It brings spiritual strength, healing, and peace when spoken with faith and reverence. For Christians, invoking the name of Jesus serves as a constant reminder of His saving power and the abundant blessings He bestows upon us.
Mother Mary and St. Joseph are the first examples of invoking the name of Jesus in their lives. The name of Jesus brought them an abundance of blessings. Mary became the mother of God, and St. Joseph became the patron of the universal church. Eventually, they became blessings to others.
As we begin a new year, let us make a resolution to invoke the name of Jesus in our lives too. Let His name be the center of our thoughts, actions, and prayers, as we seek to experience the blessings He offers through His love and grace. Let the name of Jesus be our source of strength, healing, and peace, now and always.
