May the Lord give you peace and health in the Holy Spirit.
It is 25th March 2022. We celebrate the feast of the Annunciation of the Lord. Wishing you all a happy feast day to you. Our Holy Father Pope Francis has invited the entire church to be united in prayer for the consecration of Ukraine and Russia to the Immaculate Heart of Mary. May the unceasing intercession of our Beloved Mother Mary bring peace and unity between Ukraine and Russia.
We reflect on Isaiah 7:10-14; Hebrews 10:4-10 and Luke 1:26-38.
The announcement of the birth of Jesus brought so much hope to the world and joy to the heart of Mother.
One “yes” brought salvation to the entire world. Mother Mary was so consistent with the word She gave to God, the Father and consistently kept it even amidst all challenging situations in Her life. The acceptance of Mary brought immeasurable joy in Heaven and peace on earth.
God wanted to assure humanity that God has not forgotten the people even though they have chosen to leave God. King Ahaz relied on human power and forgot the presence of God, yet God stood by the suffering and bruised humanity. We too are gently warned not to repeat the mistake of Ahaz by his own disobedience. “Behold, a young woman shall conceive and bear a Son, and shall call His name Immanuel.” (Is.7:14). There is always a way of out in whatever the situation we are in when we rely on and place our hope in God. “Here am I, Lord; I come to do your will.” (Heb.10:7). We all need to emulate the unchanging model of Mother Mary who listened to the Word of God and obeyed to the core.
The annunciation invites us to come out of the tunnel vision to the broader vision that includes the plan of God. “For with God nothing will be impossible. Mary said, “Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord; let it be done to me according to your word.” (Lk.1:37). God expects us to give the best to God. Our bodies are the best gifts we can offer. “Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship.” (Rom.12:1). In spite of not being sure of all the implications involved with her affirmative response to God, Mary remained in Her faith and trust till the end. By allowing God’s will to be done in our lives, we too can become the instrument of love, hope and peace today on earth. May you have a good day.