Jesus, Son of Blessed Mary

“Jesus, Son of Blessed Mary” is a reverent and Christ centered hymn that reflects on the mystery of the incarnation and the humility of Christ’s earthly birth. Written by Charles Edward Riley, the hymn draws the worshiper’s attention to the wonder that the eternal Son of God entered human history through the obedience and faith of Mary. Rather than exalting Mary herself, the hymn honors her role as the chosen vessel through whom God’s redemptive plan was fulfilled, keeping Christ firmly at the center of its devotion.

The hymn emphasizes the true humanity of Jesus alongside His divine identity. By naming Him as the Son of Mary, the hymn affirms that Christ fully entered human life, experiencing weakness, growth, suffering, and obedience. This truth is essential to the Christian confession, for only one who truly became human could redeem humanity. At the same time, the hymn does not diminish His divinity, but presents the incarnation as a holy mystery grounded in God’s sovereign grace.

Throughout the hymn, the language invites contemplation and worship. It encourages believers to meditate on the humility of Christ, who willingly took on flesh and was born into lowly circumstances. This humility becomes a pattern for Christian discipleship, calling believers to trust, obedience, and reverence before God’s purposes. The hymn’s tone is quiet and reflective, making it especially suitable for seasons such as Advent and Christmas, as well as for services focused on the life of Christ.

Biblically, the hymn draws from the Gospel narratives that recount the angelic announcement to Mary and the fulfillment of God’s promise through the virgin birth. It also echoes the apostolic teaching that Christ came in the fullness of time to redeem those under the law. By grounding its meditation in Scripture, the hymn invites worshipers to respond not with speculation, but with faith and awe.

“Jesus, Son of Blessed Mary” continues to serve the church as a thoughtful expression of incarnational faith. It reminds believers that salvation did not arrive through power or spectacle, but through humility, obedience, and divine love. In reflecting on the Son born of Mary, the hymn leads the heart to praise the God who chose to dwell among His people and redeem them from within their own human story.