As we reflect on the readings of Ecclus 24:14-16 and Luke 11:27-28 in the spirit of Saturday after the X Sunday after Pentecost, we are invited to delve into the rich tapestry of Traditional Catholic teachings, drawing from the wisdom of the Church Fathers.
Ecclus 24:14-16
“I was exalted like a cedar in Libanus, and as a cypress tree on mount Sion. I was exalted like a palm tree in Cades, and as a rose plant in Jericho. As a fair olive tree in the plains, and as a plane tree by the water in the streets, was I exalted.”
In these verses, the personification of Wisdom is vividly described, embodying a range of natural images that symbolize growth, strength, and beauty. The Church Fathers, particularly St. Augustine, have often linked this passage to the Virgin Mary, the Seat of Wisdom. St. Augustine explains that Mary’s exaltation is akin to the noblest and most fruitful trees, symbolizing her purity and her vital role in salvation history.
St. Ambrose also reflects on the imagery of the cedar and the cypress, noting that these trees’ lofty stature and fragrance represent the virtues of Mary, who stands tall in faith and is pleasing to God. Her life is a testament to the flourishing of divine wisdom within a humble and obedient heart.
Luke 11:27-28
“And it came to pass, as he spoke these things, a certain woman of the crowd, lifting up her voice, said to him: Blessed is the womb that bore thee, and the paps that gave thee suck. But he said: Yea rather, blessed are they who hear the word of God, and keep it.”
In this passage, a woman in the crowd extols Mary for her motherhood, but Jesus redirects the blessing to those who hear and keep God’s word. This response does not diminish Mary’s blessedness but rather expands the understanding of true blessedness.
St. John Chrysostom comments that Christ’s words emphasize that spiritual kinship with Him through obedience to God’s word is even more important than biological connection. St. Bede the Venerable adds that Mary exemplifies this perfectly, for she not only bore the Word made flesh but also lived in complete submission to God’s will.
Integrating the Readings
The readings from Ecclesiasticus and Luke together invite us to a deeper contemplation of the Blessed Virgin Mary’s role and example. Mary’s exaltation in Ecclesiasticus, depicted through the majestic imagery of nature, finds its fulfillment in her unwavering fidelity to God’s word, as highlighted by Jesus in Luke.
As we meditate on these passages, we are reminded of the virtues that Mary exemplifies—humility, obedience, and a deep receptivity to God’s word. The Church Fathers urge us to imitate Mary in our own lives by nurturing these virtues. St. Augustine’s interpretation calls us to let divine wisdom flourish within us, just as it did in Mary, so that we too may be exalted in the eyes of God.
In this liturgical season, as we celebrate the Saturdays after the X Sunday after Pentecost, let us strive to hear the word of God and keep it, following the example of Mary, the perfect disciple. Through her intercession, may we grow in wisdom and grace, becoming living testimonies to the power of God’s word at work in our lives.
This reflection, rooted in the teachings of the Church Fathers, invites us to a deeper appreciation of Mary’s role and the call to live out the Gospel with the same fidelity and devotion. As we continue our spiritual journey, let us seek the intercession of Our Lady, that we may grow in holiness and wisdom, bearing fruit that lasts into eternal life.