In Praise of Paradox, and the Platytera

The Feast of the Immaculate Conception is a stunning celebration of Mary's motherhood, emphasizing the sacredness of the chosen vessel through whom God took on flesh. Debates have long existed regarding how much honor is due the mother of God (Council of Ephesus, 431). Honestly, I have wrestled with that question myself. As Providence would have it, an artist tipped the scales for me.

Over egg bake at a volunteer event, we made small talk and he shared that he was from the Greek Orthodox tradition. In his spare time, he painted (wrote) icons. Delighted to share his hobby and work, I listened as he described his favorite subject: Theotokos (Greek for God-bearer), specifically the Platytera (womb more spacious than the heavens). From that paradoxical phrase and its accompanying image, I have gleaned more reverence for the Mother of God than perhaps any other singular exchange.

To the one who contained the uncontainable, we give honor and praise today.

"Behold I am the handmaid of the Lord. May it be done to me according to your word.' (Luke 1:38).

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Katie Cassady is a wife, mom, writer, speaker, beekeeper, and avid gardener in the Denver metro area. She is wholly convinced that the love of God communicated through stewardship, the inherent dignity of the human person, and the practice of Sabbath holds untold potential for the Church and the world. You can find her @unexpected_honey.