Mary is given the title Mother of God not because she is viewed as a goddess. The title is all about Jesus! It is one of the earliest titles given to the woman who said YES to God when the Archangel Gabriel told her that she would become a mother, and her child would be called "the Son of God." The Council of Ephesus (431AD) held that Mary is truly the Mother of God, since she gave birth to the Son of God. But why is the title "Mother of God" so important for Christians? Why not just "mother of Jesus"? The issue hotly debated before the Council was whether Jesus is fully human and fully divine. If Jesus is only human, then the title "mother of Jesus" would be appropriate, just like a woman who gives birth to a man named John would be called "mother of John."

Therefore, "Mother of God" holds two significances: "mother" tells of Jesus' human nature, and "God" tells of His divine nature. The title conveys the inseparable presence of both natures at the same time in Jesus, even as He walked the earth more than 2,000 years ago. Being fully human, He understands our human weakness and longings. As fully divine, He is the fulfillment and hope of humanity needs.

What does that hold for you when you pray and relate to Jesus? What do we learn from Mary who treasured up and pondered all that happened in her heart?