Your word is a lamp for my feet and a light for my path. (Psalm 119)
Luke 1:26-38
The Annunciation of Christ Jesus’ birth to Mary guides me to find and follow God’s will for my life. First, and perhaps foremost, Mary was accustomed to praying ‘without ceasing’ (cf 1 Thessalonians 5:17). She was present in prayer, so mindful of the Holy Spirit of God to perceive the angel Gabriel and to hear his message. Secondly, despite her initial fear, Mary listened and recognized the origin of the life-giving words (the Word), and so opened herself in body, mind and spirit to the will of God. Thirdly Mary did nothing to promote her own agenda, but glorified God in thought, word and deed, because she recognized his plans of mercy and healing. Finally, Mother Mary waited and waded through the challenges of 9 months of pregnancy for Jesus to be born, and another 33 years for Gabriel’s prophesy to be fulfilled in her son’s death and resurrection. Am I ready, like Mary, to lift up my soul to God, that we might receive salvation and healing through Christ Jesus? Holy Spirit, help me accommodate your will for my life. Who shall ascend the hill of the Lord? And who shall stand in his holy place? Those who have clean hands and pure hearts, who do not lift up their souls to what is false. (Psalm 24:3,4) [God’s will ] comes from love; all is ordained for the salvation of people; God does nothing without this goal in mind. St. Catherine of Sienna www.gospelmysteryoftheday.ca Soli ad gloriam dei
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorBeverly Illauq lives in Kemptville, Ontario, where she greets each morning by seeking the Gospel Mystery of the Day - the Word of the Lord for direct and practical application to the specific challenges & joys of the day. Archives
March 2024
Categories |