Every year, as Christmas approaches, discussions resurface about the popular Christmas carol, “Mary, Did You Know?”. This song often sparks debate regarding its theological accuracy and appropriateness, with some questioning whether it diminishes the Virgin Mary’s understanding of her son’s divine nature and mission. As someone who has grown to deeply appreciate this song, I want to offer a perspective that embraces its devotional beauty and theological depth.
Here is a moving performance of the song that captures its emotional power:
Performance of Mary Did You Know song
One of the primary criticisms leveled against “Mary, Did You Know?” centers around the very premise of the question. Critics argue that, of course, Mary knew the significance of her son! After all, the Archangel Gabriel clearly laid out God’s plan, informing her that she would conceive a son, Jesus, through the Holy Spirit, and that this son would be the savior of the world (Luke 1:31-35). To suggest she didn’t know seems to undermine her faith and understanding.
However, to interpret the song in this literal, accusatory way misses its devotional heart. “Mary, Did You Know?” isn’t attempting to present a dogmatic theological statement or quiz Mary’s knowledge. Instead, it approaches the Annunciation and the mystery of the Incarnation from a posture of awe and wonder. It’s an expression of incredulity – not disbelief, but a sense of being overwhelmed by the enormity of God’s plan. It’s the kind of question we ourselves might ask, grappling with the almost unbelievable reality of God becoming human. “Can this truly be? Is this really God?”. The song gently leads us to the resounding affirmation: Yes, it is. She knew, and yet, the mystery remains breathtaking. This perspective aligns with a devotional approach, one that values contemplation and spiritual reflection.
Archangel Gabriel Annunciation to Mary
Another point of contention arises from the lyric: “The baby you delivered will soon deliver you.” Some interpret this line as contradicting the doctrine of the Immaculate Conception, which states that Mary was preserved from original sin from the moment of her conception. If Mary was without sin, how could she need to be “delivered”?
To understand this line, we need to consider a theological perspective that embraces both poetic expression and scholastic thought. We must shift our understanding of time to God’s perspective – an eternal present where all of time is grasped simultaneously. From this divine vantage point, Jesus’s sacrifice on the cross is the event that merited Mary’s Immaculate Conception. In essence, Mary’s salvation, her being “delivered” from sin, was made possible by the future sacrifice of her son.
Looking back from our place in history, knowing the full narrative of salvation, we can speak poetically to Mary, acknowledging that the baby she bore would ultimately be the source of her own redemption. This isn’t a denial of the Immaculate Conception but rather a reflection on the profound mystery of God’s plan unfolding through time and eternity. The merit of Jesus’ sacrifice, applied to Mary by God who exists outside of time, precedes her birth in earthly time. This is a mystery, and poetry, including song lyrics, often serves as a powerful medium to explore such profound theological truths.
While “Mary, Did You Know?” offers valuable insights for personal prayer and reflection, its suitability for liturgical use, particularly within the Mass, is a separate consideration. The sacred orientation of the Mass calls for worship directed primarily towards God. While acknowledging the presence of the community, the focus remains on divine worship. Therefore, while the theological reflections inspired by “Mary, Did You Know?” are rich and meaningful, its performance during Mass might not fully align with the liturgical focus.
Extending our theological exploration, we can even ponder the extent of Jesus’ own human knowledge regarding his divine mission and identity. The Gospels suggest a gradual unfolding of understanding even for Jesus in his humanity. If the scope of Jesus’ human knowledge is a subject of theological inquiry, how much more mysterious is Mary’s understanding at each stage of her journey? Perhaps, like Jesus in his human nature, Mary also grew in understanding, receiving the knowledge she needed at each moment of God’s unfolding plan in her life, in “the fullness of time” (Galatians 4:4).
Ultimately, the power of “Mary, Did You Know?” lies in its ability to draw us into the mystery of the Incarnation and Mary’s pivotal role. It invites us to reflect on Mary’s “fiat,” her courageous and trusting response to the angel’s announcement: “Let it be done unto me according to your word” (Luke 1:38). This unwavering commitment to God’s plan, even without full understanding, is a powerful example of faith. It reminds us that God looks upon the lowliness of his servants and brings forth salvation for all. Through Mary’s “yes,” we received a Savior, the Word made Flesh, God in human form – a baby we can hold in our hearts, who reaches out to embrace us with divine love.
This Christmas season, may reflecting on “Mary, Did You Know?” deepen your appreciation for the wonder of the Incarnation and the unwavering faith of the Virgin Mary.
For those seeking songs that explore similar themes of awe and poetic reflection on the Christmas story, consider listening to Joseph’s Lullaby, and Joseph’s Song.
