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The Basilica of Saint Mary Major

La Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore

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The Basilica of Saint Mary Major reflects the early church’s efforts to honor Mary, the mother of Jesus. The 5th-century mosaics on the triumphal arch in the basilica depict scenes from the life of Jesus and Mary. This artwork includes the Annunciation, the Nativity, and the Adoration of the Magi. These scenes highlight a monumental moment in God’s plan of salvation.

The Triumphal Arch Mosaics
As you observe the arch and follow the narrative, reflect on these verses from Romans 5:6-9:
“When we were utterly helpless, Christ came at just the right time and died for us sinners. Now, most people would not be willing to die for an upright person, though someone might perhaps be willing to die for a person who is especially good. But God showed his great love for us by sending Christ to die for us while we were still sinners. And since we have been made right in God’s sight by the blood of Christ, he will certainly save us from God’s condemnation.”

God has been working out your forgiveness for a long time. In Christ, that forgiveness is now free and forever.

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For the one who waits for victory at Saint Mary Major

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Prayer

Lord Jesus,
who conquered once and for all
the sin and death that so easily conquer me,

Praise your holy name.

The scars in your wrists,
the wound in your side,
the rising sun,
the empty tomb –
All of these resound
in the symphony of your glory.

Even now,
as I enter this basilica of marble and stone,
I am reminded of you –
the cornerstone of my freedom,
the pillar of my joy,
the architect of my salvation.

O, how the darkness must have trembled
when it saw the light of your resurrection.
O, how fearful death itself must have been
the moment it lost its sting.

How hollow shame must have felt
when your love won,
when your mercy won,
when the door to grace was forever opened
by the Son of God who is lifted up in glory.

Praise your holy name.

I see your blessed Mother as she points to you,
Directing all who are weary and heavy laden
To the One who can give them rest,
And I approach the foot of your throne.

O, great Potter,
who molds beauty and wonder from
the callused folds of my many imperfections,
I give all I am to you.

My past and my future,
my doubts and my dreams,
my pride and my shame –
I entrust all of these into your hands.

Too often do I walk alone
while you desire to be with me.

Too often do I hide in the cold
while you welcome me into the warmth of your love.

Too often do I refuse to forgive myself
while the penalty for my sins has already been paid.

But no more.

Lavish me with your love, Lord.
Fill me with your presence.

I will no longer sit in defeat
when the victory has already been won.
I will not be held captive by broken chains.

Raise me up,
as you rose,
and set my feet on solid ground.

Steady me as I walk along the roads
which you have laid before me.
And guide me on my way.

You are my love.
You are my hope.
You are my everything.

Praise your holy name.

Blessing and honor and glory and power
belong to the One sitting on the throne
and to the Lamb forever and ever.

Amen.