Theological Foundations new file

146 Theological Foundations Virgins, indeed, the Most Perfect of all creatures, thinks so very humbly of herself?” 14 The Archangel infused the Most Holy Virgin with courage and calmed her fears, assuring her that she should not be afraid of any trick or deceit in this matter (cf. Lk 1, 30), just as if, at the same time, he want- ed to tell all those who are in the state of sanctifying grace not to be afraid even of hell itself. 15 When the angels’s promise: “And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bear a son” (Lk 1, 31), was fulfilled in Mary’s life, this Most Holy Virgin, enriched with the highest gifts and privileges, acquired even greater holiness after she had conceived the Son of God. Just as fruits are the most perfect ornament for trees, so also Mary’s Most Holy Fruit endowed her with unparalleled beauty, splendor and holiness. 16 The dignity of her motherhood comes from the dignity of her Son, and He is the Lord of the Angels and the King of the universe. As Mother of the Son of God, Mary is the Divine Bride, the Lady of the Angels and the Queen of all creatures. It is from her Divine motherhood that all hon- ors, graces and privileges come. 17 After she received the joyful news that the Son of the Most High had descended into her womb, Mary went to see Elizabeth: “In those days Mary arose and went with haste into the hill country, to a city of Judah, and she entered the house of Zechariah and greeted Elizabeth” (Lk 1, 39- 40). She wanted to assist the one who was less worthy than herself and to serve her in the spirit of love. Although she walked laden with God’s burden, she did not feel any fatigue. By leaving the valleys and taking a journey into the mountains, Mary teaches us to choose what is higher and more perfect, by her haste she encourages us to use our time prop- erly and fill it with worthwhile work. 18 “When Elizabeth heard the greeting of Mary, the babe leaped in her womb” (Lk 1, 41). John the Baptist stirred with joy feeling the presence of Christ enclosed in Mary’s womb. He has not yet seen the light of the sun, but he felt the closeness of the Sun of Justice and rejoiced in it. The closeness of God always evokes joy. This joy was shared by John’s