MARY'S "YES"

Luke 1:26-38

One of the great mysteries at the heart of our Faith as Christian is that God has loved us so much that he decided to enter into our humanity in the person of His Son, Jesus Christ. Today’s gospel narrates the beautiful story of the annunciation when the Angel Gabriel was sent to Mary to deliver the message of the divine entry into humanity. Upon entering Gabriel greeted Mary, “Rejoice O highly favored daughter. The Lord is with you.” Mary was greatly troubled at these words and wondered what kind of greeting this might be. But the Angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary, you have found favor with God, behold you will conceive and bear a son.”

What I find interesting in this story is the reaction of Mary to the message.  First she says:  “How will this be, since I have no relations with a man?” She knows already she is hearing something beyond human capability. Her question is not prompted by doubt or skepticism, but by wonder and expression of great faith. What she is asking for is more information about the mission she is about to undertake. And after the explanation, we see her saying: “Behold I am the handmaid of the Lord. May it be done to me according to your word.” Mary's prompt response of "yes" to the divine message is a model of faith for all believers. Mary believed God's promises even when they seemed impossible. She was full of grace because she trusted that what the Angel said was true and would be fulfilled. She was willing and eager to do God's will, even if it seemed difficult or even impossible.

During this period of great expectation, Mary gives us a picture of faith as a response to God's favor.  She is our example, not only because she is the mother of God, but mostly because she is a woman of faith; and this is which helped her to accept God’s plan in her life. This passage calls us to faith and trust in God even when we seem not understanding. Faith is not something we possess, but something that possesses us. Faith is an obedient response to God showing Himself in our lives. May the Lord grant us such faith as we prepare ourselves for the coming of his son.