Why Catholics See Mary Differently

A Biblical Perspective

Mary: The Extraordinary Woman Chosen by God

In conversations about Mary, the mother of Jesus, one common objection arises: "Mary was just an ordinary woman." While this assertion may seem to stem from a desire to focus solely on Christ, it diminishes the profound role Mary played in God’s plan of salvation. Far from being "ordinary," Mary is extraordinary in every sense of the word. Her life, her fiat (yes), and her example reveal her unique place in salvation history.

The Angel’s Greeting: A Singular Grace

What "ordinary" woman is greeted by an angel with the words, “Hail, full of grace, the Lord is with you!” (Luke 1:28, RSVCE)? Gabriel’s salutation is remarkable not only for its content but for what it signifies: Mary is “full of grace,” an expression indicating a singular grace given by God. She is chosen and prepared for a unique mission—to bear the Son of God.

Mary’s reaction is also noteworthy. She is troubled by the greeting, not in doubt or fear but in humility, seeking to understand what this means. Her response to the angel’s message, “Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord; let it be to me according to your word” (Luke 1:38, RSVCE), is one of profound faith and obedience. This moment—the Incarnation—marks the turning point of human history.

Conceived by the Holy Spirit

The angel Gabriel announces to Mary that “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you” (Luke 1:35, NABRE). Through this divine action, Mary becomes the mother of Jesus Christ, the eternal Son of God. This event is unparalleled and unimaginable. To call Mary “ordinary” in light of this is to overlook the extraordinary nature of her relationship with God and her singular role as the Theotokos, the God-bearer.

Mother of Jesus, Our Lord and Savior

Mary’s extraordinary nature is further highlighted in her motherhood. She is not simply the mother of a great prophet or a holy man; she is the mother of Jesus Christ, true God and true man. From the moment of His conception, Mary nurtures, protects, and loves Him as any mother would, yet her role surpasses that of any other mother.

She stood by Him at the foot of the Cross, sharing in His suffering in a way no one else could. Simeon’s prophecy, “And you yourself a sword will pierce” (Luke 2:35, NABRE), was fulfilled as Mary watched her Son give His life for the salvation of the world.

Mary’s Words: A Model for All Disciples

Mary’s last recorded words in Scripture are found at the wedding at Cana, where she tells the servants, “Do whatever he tells you” (John 2:5, NABRE). These words are not just for the servants; they are for all of us. Mary, as a model of faith, always points us to Jesus. Her unwavering trust in God’s plan and her role in encouraging others to follow Christ make her an extraordinary guide for Christians.

Mary as a Model of Faith and Motherhood

Mary’s life offers us a profound example of faith and motherhood:

• Faith: Mary trusted God completely, even when she could not fully comprehend His plan. She believed in His promises and submitted to His will without hesitation.

• Motherhood: Mary’s care for Jesus, from His infancy to His death on the Cross, shows the depth of a mother’s love. She continues to care for us as a spiritual mother, interceding on our behalf before her Son.

Extraordinary, Not Ordinary

To insist that Mary was “just an ordinary woman” is to ignore the extraordinary grace she received and the unparalleled role she played in salvation history. She was chosen, full of grace, overshadowed by the Holy Spirit, and became the mother of God Incarnate. Her life is a testament to what God can accomplish through a humble and obedient heart.

Mary’s example calls us to greater faith and trust in God. As we honor her, we honor the God who chose her and worked through her for our salvation. Let us follow her example and heed her words: “Do whatever he tells you.”