Netflix’s recent release, “Mary,” directed by D.J. Caruso, has captivated audiences, quickly ascending to the top of the platform’s charts. The film delves into the life of Mary, a woman revered by millions as the Theotokos, the Blessed Mother, and the Queen of Heaven. Starring Noa Cohen as Mary and Anthony Hopkins as King Herod, the movie invites viewers to contemplate the extraordinary life and enduring significance of this pivotal figure in Christian history, particularly during the Advent and Christmas seasons. Understanding Mary’s role requires an exploration of her biblical portrayal and the theological interpretations that have shaped her image throughout centuries of faith.
The Gospel of Luke offers the foundation for Mary’s unique status. The Annunciation, a central event in Christian belief, is recounted in Luke 1:28, where the angel Gabriel greets Mary as “full of grace.” This phrase, laden with theological weight, signifies Mary’s purity and freedom from original sin, a concept central to Catholic doctrine. This belief in Mary’s Immaculate Conception – the idea that she was conceived without sin – sets her apart and prepares her for her divinely ordained role as the mother of Jesus. Mary’s acceptance of this extraordinary calling, expressed in her humble response, “Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord,” further solidifies her place as a willing participant in God’s plan for humanity.
Pope Francis, in his 2017 reflection on the Annunciation, emphasized the profound meaning of “full of grace,” describing Mary as being entirely inhabited by God, leaving no room for sin. This interpretation contrasts Mary’s purity with the inherent flaws and imperfections of the world and humanity, even in its most beautiful aspects. Pope Francis portrayed Mary as an “evergreen oasis,” a unique being untouched by the pervasive effects of sin, perfectly prepared to embrace God and usher in a new era of history. This understanding of Mary’s sinlessness highlights her singular role in salvation history.
The significance of Mary during Advent, a season of spiritual preparation for the birth of Christ, cannot be overstated. Mark Miravalle, a prominent theologian and Mariologist, underscores Mary’s pervasive presence during this time, from traditional manger scenes to contemporary media. He emphasizes Mary’s crucial human cooperation in God’s plan, highlighting the profound respect for human dignity, especially the dignity of women, inherent in Mary’s role. Miravalle explains that Mary, a human woman, gave human nature to the divine second Person of the Trinity through the power of the Holy Spirit, allowing Jesus, both God and man, to redeem the world.
Advent, therefore, becomes a time to honor Mary’s participation in this divine plan. Her willing acceptance of God’s will allowed for the incarnation of Jesus, the Savior awaited by humanity. This highlights God’s desire for human cooperation in his plan of salvation. Miravalle points to the profound theological implications of Mary’s role: a human woman, chosen by God, plays an essential part in bringing the divine into the human realm.
Finally, it is crucial to understand the relationship between Mary and Jesus. While Mary is highly venerated, especially within the Catholic tradition, Miravalle emphasizes that there is no competition between mother and son. Their relationship is one of perfect harmony and obedience to God’s will. Mary’s role is not to overshadow Jesus but to facilitate his mission of salvation. Their unified purpose, according to Miravalle, led to the birth and eventual triumph of the Savior, the source of true peace for the world. This underscores the interconnectedness of their roles and the vital importance of both in Christian belief.
