Fr. Bloom,
I'd be happy to have you post my (cf. letter). It would be interesting to hear what visitors to your page have to say about this topic. I experienced an interesting coincidence last night at a Bible study which I attend. We were discussing Phil. 3 where Paul describes exactly what I was trying to convey in my letter to you. Paul says, essentially, that if anyone has any right to boast about their good works and pious life, he does. And yet he considers all of his accomplishments worthless, and seeks to divert attention from himself to God. If one of the greatest apostles of the church thinks that about his ministry, surely it is no great stretch of the imagination to think that Mary would describe her role in our salvation in a similar context. I agree that it is an interesting predicament to try to reconcile our own free will and responsibility with our complete dependance upon God's grace. I've wondered about that a lot, and I don't really know what to think.
In Christ,
Seth
***********
Dear Seth,
Beautiful reference from Philippians 3. I am most reluctant to deny anything you say about the worthlessness of our human "accomplishments." Especially in our culture we need to hear that truth. One of the things that drives me crazy is listening to people talk as if God owes us salvation. I've noticed it particularly at funerals in recent years. "So and so must be in heaven because of all the good things he did..." Have you heard eulogies like that? I've heard them even from priests and ministers. They will sometimes use Matthew 25, "Whatsoever you did for one for the least of my brethren, that you did unto me...(therefore?) enter into the joy of my kingdom."
Your Bible study group is on a better track. Still, I would point to the previous chapter of Phil. St. Paul says "work out your own salvation with fear and trembling; for God is at work in you, both to will and to work for his own good pleasure." (vv.12-13) C.S. Lewis was fond of quoting those verses because they bring together both our effort and our total dependence on God's grace (and a warning against the sin of "presumption"). The Catechism of the Catholic Church has a beautiful section titled "Grace and Justification." (1987ff) That might be the best thing to read and see if fits St. Paul's teaching or not.
Can I make another suggestion for your Bible study? Romans 12 and I Cor 12 give Paul's description of the Body of Christ, how we are related not just individually to Jesus, but each person joined to him. A comparison I just heard was about a guy whose girl friend invites him to meet her parents. He responds, "It's you I have a relationship with. I don't need to get to know your parents." Wouldn't fly, would it?
Anyway, Seth, these are some thoughts. You and I probably won't be able to resolve these big questions, but it is so important to keep reflecting and praying on them. I would enjoy keeping in touch, hearing about your studies, especially your studies and growth in God's Word. Write again.
God Bless,
Fr. Phil Bloom
************