Mary is the first disciple. In St. Ignatius’ “Call of the Kingdom,” Jesus asks his would-be followers to follow him in suffering, and so follow him in glory. This is precisely what Mary did in her life. Her status as a woman in Jewish society was low, but she allowed the Spirit to lead her, beginning at the Annunciation, and her whole life unfolded as a series of unfathomable events.
She gives birth in a stable, becomes a refugee when Herod goes after her infant son, is puzzled at Simeon’s words in the temple and Jesus’ own words after he is found there; she journeys with her son despite not understanding everything, and she ends up at the foot of the cross. This is not about having trials in life. It is a lifetime of trials; yet Mary remained steadfast in the hope that God’s promise to her would be fulfilled.
So when Jesus is raised from the dead, is it any wonder that he appears to his mother so that she can also share in his glory, she who has shared so much of his suffering? This is the meaning of Mary’s queenship. She is our model of discipleship and hope.
If we follow Jesus in his life, death, and resurrection; if we allow the Spirit to work in us; then we shall have a share in the glory that God has reserved for those who love him.
