Today is the Solemnity of the Annunciation of the Lord

“God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him . . . might have eternal life.” (John 3:16) At the Annunciation, God revealed this good news to Mary. She was the first to hear and to believe that God would do what he promised. Her faith told her that nothing is impossible for God. Mary also heard God’s invitation calling her to be the Virgin Mother of his Son.

This call meant that Jesus would be formed in her womb, and she, as his mother, would nourish and care for him. This call meant that she had a special place in God’s plan for salvation. Mary replied, “I am the handmaid of the Lord. May it be done to me according to your word.” (Luke 1:38) In saying yes, Mary agreed to God’s plan because she wanted what God wanted. She was willing to accept all the joy and pain, all the unexpected events. She was willing to bring Christ to a waiting world.

-Excerpted from Christ Our Life, by Sisters of Notre Dame of Chardon, Ohio