Our mainly pathetic excuses for godly lives pale compared to those of Mary, Peter, James, John, and the other Apostles (excepting Judas who seems more like us). I can scarcely believe some of us have the Spirit of God; how could one not love Miriam and be inspired by her faith, courage, holiness, and undying loyalty to her son, the Son of the Highest; it is as if the basest instincts take over and there is no understanding of the majestic grace bestowed on her.
We know that we have passed from death unto life, because we love the brethren. He that loveth not his brother abideth in death.
Excellent point. I don’t think I have downplayed the role of Blessed Mary at all. Pointing out, as you did, the Biblical Mary leads us to follow her example of faithfulness, dedication, humility and servitude. That is the Mary I see in scriptures and she is one of the great examples of Great Faith in the Bible. When we debate these theological issues such as what you wrote is lost.
When I take issue with traditions which go beyond the scriptural evidence I in no way am trying to sully Blessed Mary.