“Who then can be saved?” (Matthew 19:25) In the minds of the disciples, it was precisely the rich, the powerful, those esteemed and honored of the world who were assured of salvation. Their material comforts were clearly an indication of divine blessing, the disciples thought. The disciples had much to learn. Gideon similarly was quite sure that he would be of no help in the mission of saving Israel from those who threatened them. He tells the angel about his lack of qualifications: “My family is the poorest in Manasseh, and I am the most insignificant in my father’s house.” (Judges 6:15) Gideon had much to learn.
What the Lord sought to teach both of them was that they were so perplexed or even despairing, because they thought that humans save themselves. Neither poor Gideon, nor the rich enter into salvation, into the kingdom of heaven, by their own power. It is precisely because of the presence of God for whom all is possible that neither Gideon, nor anyone else need despair. It is the Lord who gives might, meaning, and merit to our actions done in Him. It does not matter if the world is watching or if the world cares. The presence of the Lord is what makes salvation possible.
Mary knew this better than anyone else. She did not question whether the Lord was with her (unlike the hesitant Gideon). She did not presume that what won the favor of men would win the favor of the Lord (unlike the confused disciples). She was humble enough to acknowledge her dependence upon the loving Lord who was with her. And that humility has brought not only into heaven, but to reign amongst the saved. Let pray today for Mary to share with us her humility and wisdom, that we may share with her the joys of heaven.