The new Eve and Mary's Spiritual Motherhood
In the Magnificat, Mary proclaims, “For behold, henceforth all generations will call me blessed” (Luke 1:48). At first glance, this declaration might seem puzzling. Unlike many women of her time, Mary had no biological descendants to carry forward her legacy. After all, her son, Jesus, offered His life for humanity and left no children behind. What, then, prompted Mary, filled with the Holy Spirit, to proclaim that future generations would bless her name? The key to understanding Mary’s words lies in the events at the foot of the cross. As Jesus hung on Calvary, He entrusted His beloved disciple, John, with the care of His mother. He said to Mary, “Woman, behold, your son!” and to John, “Behold, your mother!” (John 19:26–27). This was not a mere practical arrangement for Mary’s care. It was a profound spiritual act, establishing Mary as the spiritual mother of all who follow Christ. Interestingly, this scene unfolded with John’s biological mother present. Moreover, Jesus had cousins...