Christmas Reflection: Mary the Theotokus
In Eastern Orthodoxy, the Virgin Mary is called the Theotokus. This literally means ‘she who gave birth to one who was God‘.
She could not have received this name unless she said, ‘Yes’.
Luke 1 v 38
“I am the Lord’s servant,” Mary answered. “May it happen to me according to your word.”
Through accepting the angel’s word, she became part of God’s plan for salvation.
She is a model for the Christian. We must be like her and continue to say ‘Yes’ to Jesus, He who was born of the Theotokus.
Through us accepting the Word, we then become part of God’s salvation plan to all those around us.
God-Bearer
Another common translation of Theotokus is ‘God-Bearer’.
At this Christmas, take time to consider the Nativity story and be a ‘God Bearer’ like her. Wherever we go, bringing Christ, the Light of the World, to all whom we meet.
Here is a prayer from the Orthodox Church.
O Virgin Theotokos who gave birth to the Saviour, you reversed the curse to which Eve once was subject.
For you have become the Mother of the Father's good pleasure, and you hold in your embraces God the Logos incarnate.
The mystery admits to inquiry; we all glorify it by faith alone, and with you we cry aloud and say "O Lord incomprehensible, glory to You."
(From the Praises, in the Orthros of the Nativity. Trans. Fr. Seraphim Dedes.)
Happy Christmas Eve