By Eedara Vamshi csc –
Readings: Is 7:10-14, 8:10; Lk 1:26-38
In the first reading, Prophet Isaiah gives a sign to the people of Israel that a virgin shall bear a son and shall name him Emmanuel. What Prophet Isaiah spoke in the first reading, is fulfilled in the gospel reading of today.
The gospel talks about the visitation of the angel Gabriel to Virgin Mary. Mary is the chosen one to bear the son of God. Mary did not understand how she as a virgin could bear a child. The angel assured Mary that the Holy Spirit would come upon her, and then she will bear a son.
The birth of the Lord Jesus conveys to us that nothing is impossible for God. The annunciation marks the beginning of the Good News. It is in and through Mary that the Good News of liberation is announced to the entire humanity. By saying yes, Mary became the New Ark of the Covenant, overshadowed by the spirit bearing God in her womb.
When we live by the gospel and live in a state of grace like Mary, we too will be overshadowed by the spirit of God to bring forth Jesus in our contemporary world. Life imposes a lot of duties on us, there are duties for others and duties to God, besides duties to ourselves.
Where would the world be if everyone just thought of themselves and insisted on doing their own thing, seeking their own freedom, happiness? Those who accept their call as Mary did may not find happiness and fulfilment in the eyes of the world but will certainly find it in the eyes of God.
As we are nearing Christmas, let us imitate Mary by preparing ourselves to welcome the child Jesus, our saviour, into our hearts. Let us ask God to make us meek and humble in heart like Mother Mary so that we can welcome the child Jesus with joy.