The Annunciation

Today the Catholic Church turns her eyes to Nazareth, to a young Virgin betrothed to a man named Joseph of the House of David...

It was this Virgin who, over 2,000 years ago, gave her "Fiat" to the Almighty God. Through this "Yes," the Word was made Flesh in her womb...

Let us ponder and meditate on this awesome moment in our history!

Contemplate the great love God has for us! It was only a few days ago we were reflecting on the words of Sacred Scripture: For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him might not perish but might have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world might be saved through him. (Jn 3:16-17)

In the Annunciation, we see how God fulfills this Scripture with the Fiat of Mary: He sent a messenger, the Archangel Gabriel to Our Lady in Nazareth. God doesn't force her to accept His plan. Instead, like a respectful suitor, God asks her for her participation. Mary could have said "no." But she tells the angel Gabriel, "Ecce ancilla Domini: Fiat mihi secundum verbum tuum."---"Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord. May it be done to me according to your word." (Lk 1:38)

So it is, that when God created Adam and Eve, they willingly sinned against Him. Through their act of disobedience, they brought sin and death into the world, condemning mankind and darkening our existence. In the Incarnation, Mary surrenders to the Almighty God. Through her act of obedience to His Divine Will, she brings forth Salvation into the world...

Thank you, Blessed Mary, ever-Virgin, Mother of us all!

At Mass, I found myself getting emotional after receiving Jesus in Holy Communion. I prayed, "2,000 years ago, You came into flesh in the womb of Mary, and here I am, Lord, receiving You in the flesh into my mouth and into my heart! HERE I AM, Lord, let all be done in my life according to Your word!"

Hope you have a wonderful Feast day!!!