The Nativity of Mary: A Birthday of Humble Service

Our birthdays are special days because we celebrate the gift of life. Each year we count not only the passing of time but also the blessings received.

In the liturgy of the Church, we celebrate three birthdays: John the Baptist on June 24, the Blessed Virgin Mary on September 8, and Jesus Christ on December 25. The birth of John and Mary is always connected to the Nativity of Christ, the Word made flesh.

When we celebrate the birth of John the Baptist, we are reminded that six months later comes Christmas. When we celebrate the Nativity of Mary, Christmas is only 108 days away. Mary has a special role in the coming of the Redeemer, and so the Church honors the birth of the Mother before that of the Savior.

This reminds me of a story I once received through an email. In one family, whenever the father or children celebrated their birthdays, the mother would prepare everything—cooking, serving, and organizing—while the celebrant simply enjoyed. But on the mother’s birthday, the father and children took over. They prepared and organized, though not in the same way she would. She appreciated their effort but realized she preferred to serve even on her own birthday. The following year, she asked her family to let her cook and prepare, while they could simply help. And so, on her special day, she served. Strangely, this brought her joy, for even on her birthday, she found happiness in giving.

Even on her special day, Mary continues to serve: she prays for us, guides us, and leads us to her Son.

In the same way, on the birthday of the Blessed Virgin Mary, we remember her humility. Even though she is honored by countless titles and celebrations, she continues to call herself the “handmaid of the Lord” (Lk 1:38) and “the lowly servant” (Lk 1:48).

Mary received the gift of life from God, and her life has become a gift for all generations.

May our lives, like hers, also be a gift to others.