Immaculate Conception: Mary's Sinlessness Makes her MORE Human, Not Less...

Today's Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception reminds us that Mary was (1) conceived without the stain of original sin, and (2) never committed a personal sin. A temptation for us when considering Mary's sinlessness is that this fact would make her less relevant, less relatable, less connected to us sinners. But the creations stories of Genesis tell us that "in the beginning it was not so." Our first parents were created without sin, and their disobedience degraded their humanity instead of enhancing it. Where do we see Mary's humanity on display in a special way? When she stands at the foot of the cross -- not running away, not responding with violence or uncharity -- but accepting the suffering with faith, hope, and love. The defense mechanisms that prevent us from accepting our own suffering are foreign to her. Therefore, she is our best helper and advocate when it comes to learning how to suffer well without turning to sin in order to avoid it. Mary, conceived without original sin, pray for us who have recourse to thee!