Spending Advent with Mary, the Mother of Jesus
December 23, 2011 │
Monday of the 4th Week of Advent
Mary’s “Yes”
Reflection
At this point in Advent, we all know that Mary said “yes” when approached by Gabriel with the announcement that God had called her to be the mother of Jesus. Nonetheless, as we reflect once
again upon this powerful moment of history, the question asked in Psalm 24 echoes in our hearts. “Who can ascend the mountain of the Lord?” We give the answer in faith, as we think about Mary’s Yes. Only the one “whose hands are sinless, whose heart is clean, who desires not what is vain” can undertake a mission like Mary’s.
In our final preparations for the Feast of Christmas, we recall that Mary herself was conceived with a perfect grace. None of us has that same grace, and yet we are also called to bear Christ. We are called to bear him to others, and to a world hungry for truth and justice, for love and peace. We are also called to say “Yes” and to mean it with all our hearts. Yes, I will bear Christ to this world.
Share with others or ponder alone
In what way are you called to do this, to bear Christ to the world? It may be as a parent, a teacher, a farmer, or a friend. Or there may be any of a hundred other ways in which you are called.
Take action
When the phone rings and someone asks for a favor, or when the parish calls for help in various ministries, or when you see a need that you know you could meet, say “yes.”
Prayer for today
Give me the courage of my words, O God. Help me to say “yes” when I am called to serve the world. Amen.
Used with Permission
Author: Bill Huebsch