The title of Theotokos, Greek for “God-bearer,” was adopted as dogma (an authoritative teaching) at the First Council of Ephesus in 431. To call Mary the Mother of God is a teaching about the Person of Jesus and the union of His divinity with His humanity.
“Because she gives us Jesus, her son, Mary is Mother of God and our mother; we can entrust all our cares and petitions to her: she prays for us as she prayed for herself: ‘Let it be [done] to me according to your word.’ (Luke 1:38)” (Catechism of the Catholic Church). Do you ask others to pray for your recovery? Do you ask Mary to intercede for you?
“Remember, O most gracious Virgin Mary, that never was it known that anyone who fled to thy protection, implored thy help, or sought thy intercession, was left unaided. Inspired by this confidence I fly unto thee, O Virgin of virgins, my Mother. To thee do I come, before thee I stand, sinful and sorrowful. O Mother of the Word Incarnate, despise not my petitions, but in thy mercy hear and answer me. Amen” (Memorare).
Reflection by Brad Farmer