Finding Salvation's True Meaning: A Loving Look at Mary's Role
Mary's role in Jesus' life is a beautiful example of faith and obedience. Mary's 'yes' to God, paved the way for Jesus' birth. I think we'll always be grateful to her for that. Despite her fears, Mary's faith and obedience, highlight her love and trust in God.
As I reflect on her story, I'm struck by her courage and surrender. Reading her journey in 'Two From Galilee' transported me to a time when a very young woman, faced an extraordinary and daunting situation with unwavering faith! Mary's role in Jesus' life is a beautiful testament to her love, faith, and obedience to God.
On another note, there seems to be a disconnect between tradition and heartfelt worship in some churches today. Many people find comfort and meaning in their faith traditions, while others may feel constrained by practices that don't align with their personal beliefs or values. I've seen indoctrination lead to a superficial faith rather than a deeply personal one. For example, God warns against putting objects or relics at the center of one's faith, rather than God Himself. Instead, scripture says our focus should be on a personal relationship with God, and following His teachings.
God said in His Word that He is against the use of symbolic rituals and idolatry, commanding us to "have no other gods before Me." In fact, the Bible rebukes people for practicing ritualistic worship, including worshiping statues or angels or putting faith in prayer cloths or shrouds. Scripture emphasizes placing faith, trust, and hope in Christ alone, as seen in Acts 4:12, Ephesians 2:8-9, 1 Peter 1:3-9, and Titus 2:13.
Key scriptures point to Jesus as the sole source of salvation and the object of our complete reliance for eternal life and strength, as seen in Psalm 62:1-2. It's deeply concerning that some promote certain views on Mary, that contradict biblical teachings. Specifically, that Mary plays a role in salvation, which undermines the biblical doctrine that Jesus Christ is the sole Mediator between God and humanity.
The title "Mother of Salvation" and the concept of a "Medal of Salvation" is inconsistent with John 3:16-17, which tells us that our salvation comes from Jesus, not Mary. Mary didn't die on the cross to save us from our sins; the person of Jesus did. We're not to worship or pray to Mary; that's the first commandment. Scripture confirms that Mary never has and never will bring us salvation. Ultimately, John 3:16 confirms that salvation is available for all, and that's a message that transcends all denominations.
Some denominations have different practices and interpretations regarding Mary and prayer, with some people seeing praying to Mary or using the Rosary as a way to honor her and seek her intercession, while others view it as conflicting with biblical teachings. But what does God say about that in His Word? Scripture tells us to listen to He who is Omniscient (all-knowing), Omnipotent (all-powerful), and Omnipresent (present everywhere at all times). The Giver of wise and pure guidance, highlighting God's infinite knowledge, power, and presence, all of which the Bible describes as His character.
Some key biblical points are worth noting in this discussion. Firstly, Jesus is the Sole Mediator between God and humanity, as 1 Timothy 2:5 clearly states, "For there is one God, and there is one Mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus."
Additionally, salvation is found in Christ alone, as Acts 4:12 emphasizes, "Neither is there salvation in any other, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved."
While Mary is wonderful and honored as the mother of Jesus, the Bible doesn't assign her a role as an intercessor or co-redeemer. Instead, she acknowledges her need for a Savior in Luke 1:46-47, where she exclaims, "My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior!" This verse expresses her deep joy and gratitude for being chosen as the mother of Jesus, highlighting God as her source of salvation and praise. Mary praises God's greatness and holiness, and her spirit delights in God as her Savior, recognizing His saving work.
The Catholic Church has recently clarified its stance on Mary's role, stating that Jesus alone saved humanity from eternal damnation, and therefore Catholics should not refer to Mary as "co-redeemer" or "co-redemptrix." from the original document "Mater Populi Fidelis" released by the Vatican's Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith on November 4, 2025, which aims to specify Mary's place in light of the mystery of Christ as the sole Mediator and Redeemer.
This document clarifies that using the title "Co-Redemptrix" to describe Mary, Jesus' mother, is not appropriate, as it may overshadow Christ's unique role in salvation. The document was approved by Pope Leo XIV on October 7, 2025.
The Church emphasizes that Mary's role is subordinate to Christ's, and that titles such as "Co-Redemptrix" may create confusion about Christ's exclusive role in salvation. The Bible teaches us not to give devotion, praise, or prayers, to anyone other than God. Praying to Mary or using the Rosary is inconsistent with biblical teachings. Instead, God's Word directs us to focus on praying directly to Jesus, the only Mediator between God and humanity, as stated in 1 Timothy 2:5: "For there is one God, and there is one Mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus, who gave himself as a ransom for all."
This scripture highlights Jesus' unique role as the sole bridge between humanity and God, emphasizing His divine and human natures and His redemptive sacrifice. It affirms the belief in one God and confirms Jesus Christ as the exclusive intermediary between God and humanity. Jesus' death paid the price for sin, making reconciliation with God available to everyone, regardless of denomination or background.
As much as we love our blessed Mary, she is a model of faith, not an object of worship. By focusing on Christ's work, scripture helps us understand that He is the sole mediator, and His sacrifice is sufficient for salvation.
