THE HUMILITY OF MARY

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icon of Mother of Perpetual Help

Mary’s Humility on Earth

A Reflection on the Foundation of All Virtues

Humility is often described by the saints as the foundation upon which all other virtues are built. Without it, no virtue can truly take root in the soul. As St. Bernard teaches, humility is both the beginning and the safeguard of the spiritual life.

The Blessed Virgin Mary, as the most faithful disciple of Christ, lived this virtue in a profound and perfect way. Her humility was not merely an outward expression, but an interior disposition that shaped her entire life.

Humility as the Path to God

Spiritual writers often remind us that God is drawn to humility. Where humility is found, there God delights to dwell. Mary’s life reflects this truth in a unique way.

Though she was filled with extraordinary grace, she never exalted herself. Instead, she remained deeply aware that all she had received came from God alone.

Her greatness did not lead her to pride, but to deeper humility.

Mary’s Lowly View of Herself

It is said in spiritual tradition that Mary always held a humble opinion of herself. Even though she was chosen for a singular role in God’s plan, she did not consider herself above others.

Humility begins with truth — a true understanding of who we are before God. Mary recognized both:

  • The greatness of God
  • The smallness of the creature

This awareness did not discourage her, but led her to gratitude and trust.

Humility Rooted in Truth

Saint Teresa expressed this beautifully when she said:

“Humility is truth.”

Mary lived in this truth. She knew that every grace she possessed was a gift from God. Rather than claiming anything for herself, she gave all glory back to Him.

Her humility was not self-denial in a negative sense, but a joyful recognition that God is the source of all goodness.

The Magnificat: A Song of Humility

When Mary was praised — first by the angel Gabriel and later by Elizabeth — she did not keep that praise for herself. Instead, she responded with words that have echoed through the ages:

“My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior” (Luke 1:46).

In this prayer, she directs all attention to God. Her joy is not in herself, but in Him.

This is true humility: to recognize God’s work and to rejoice in it without seeking personal glory.

The Depth of Mary’s Humility

The saints often reflect on how Mary’s humility corresponded to her greatness. The more she was exalted by God, the more she humbled herself.

Her awareness of God’s infinite goodness allowed her to see clearly the dependence of all creation on Him. This did not diminish her dignity, but perfected it.

Her humility made her receptive, open, and ready to fulfill God’s will in all things.

A Model for Us

Mary’s example teaches that humility is essential for anyone who desires to grow in the spiritual life.

We may not be called to the same role as Mary, but we are called to imitate her virtues. As St. Bernard reminds us, even if we cannot imitate her in every way, we can imitate her humility.

To follow her example is to:

  • Recognize God as the source of all good
  • Avoid pride and self-exaltation
  • Live with gratitude and simplicity
  • Give glory to God in all things

Reflection

There is a clear lesson in Mary’s life: humility opens the heart to God.

Without humility, the soul becomes closed in on itself. With humility, it becomes receptive to grace.

To be true children of Mary, we are invited to walk this same path — not seeking recognition, but seeking God.

Prayer

O Mary, humble servant of the Lord,
teach us to live in truth and simplicity.
Help us to recognize that all we have
comes from God alone.
Guide us to grow in humility,
so that our hearts may be open to His grace.

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