The early Christian belief in Mary’s Assumption was proven by the lack of her relics, empty tombs, the existence of Transitus Mariae stories, and quotes from the first Christians. They were very careful to keep the relics of saints and martyrs, even if it involved great risk (like trying to retrieve the remains of those who were eaten by lions). They did this out of great reverence for the body as a member of Christ and temple of the Holy Spirit ( I Corinthians 6:15, 19).