Netflix’s recent film, “Mary,” directed by D.J. Caruso and featuring Noa Cohen as Mary and Anthony Hopkins as King Herod, has ignited renewed interest in the figure of Mary, the mother of Jesus. The movie’s rapid ascent to the top of Netflix’s charts underscores the enduring fascination with this pivotal figure in Christian history, particularly during the Advent and Christmas seasons. Understanding Mary’s significance requires delving into her biblical portrayal and the theological interpretations that have shaped her image within Christianity.
The Gospel of Luke offers the most detailed account of Mary’s life, beginning with the Annunciation. The angel Gabriel’s greeting, “Hail, full of grace, the Lord is with you,” immediately establishes Mary’s exceptional status. This phrase, particularly the term “full of grace,” has been a source of extensive theological discussion. Catholic doctrine interprets “full of grace” as indicating Mary’s Immaculate Conception, the belief that she was conceived without original sin, a state of purity that prepared her to bear the Son of God. This interpretation contrasts with other Christian denominations that, while revering Mary, do not ascribe to the doctrine of Immaculate Conception.
Pope Francis, in his 2017 reflection on the Annunciation, emphasized that “full of grace” signifies Mary’s complete immersion in God’s presence, leaving no room for sin. He portrayed Mary as a unique oasis of humanity, untouched by the pervasive stain of evil that affects all others, a purity that enabled her to fully embrace God’s will. This interpretation aligns with the Catholic understanding of Mary as a vessel uniquely prepared for her divine role. Her “yes” to God’s plan, her willingness to become the mother of Jesus, marked the beginning of a new era in salvation history.
Mary’s importance during Advent, the period of spiritual preparation for Christmas, is undeniable. Her image pervades the season, from nativity scenes and Christmas cards to Advent hymns, highlighting her central role in the Christmas narrative. Mark Miravalle, a professor of Mariology at Ave Maria University, emphasizes that Mary’s human cooperation with God’s plan was essential for the incarnation. Her acceptance of God’s will allowed Jesus, both fully God and fully man, to enter the world and offer redemption. Advent, therefore, rightly honors Mary’s contribution to God’s plan of salvation, acknowledging her free will and the dignity of her personhood. This emphasis highlights the significance of human participation in divine action.
Miravalle further stresses that Mary’s reverence within Christianity does not detract from the centrality of Jesus. Rather than competition, their relationship is one of profound unity, a mother and son bound by obedience to God’s will. Mary’s “yes” facilitated Jesus’ birth and ultimately his victory over sin and death, a victory that brings peace to the world. This perspective underscores the complementary nature of their roles in salvation history, highlighting the interconnectedness of divine action and human response. Mary’s obedience, therefore, serves as a model for Christian discipleship, a call to embrace God’s will in our own lives.
The enduring fascination with Mary, as evidenced by the popularity of Netflix’s “Mary,” stems from her multifaceted role in Christian belief. She is revered as the Mother of God, the Theotokos, the Blessed Mother, and the Queen of Heaven, titles that reflect her unique position within the Christian narrative. Her story is one of humility, obedience, and unwavering faith, qualities that resonate across cultures and generations. While theological interpretations of her role may vary, her significance as the woman who brought Jesus into the world remains a cornerstone of Christian faith, a story that continues to inspire awe and devotion centuries later. The ongoing interest in Mary’s life underscores her enduring influence on religious and cultural landscapes, inviting continued exploration of her significance in the ongoing story of faith.
