God’s Presence in Our Lives

25 March2010

Today’s Readings: Is 7:10-14; 8:10/Lk 1:26-38

REFLECTION
In academic discussions we may say that the Lukan annunciation story is filled with comparisons and allusions. Compassion to the birth of John and Jesus, Zechariah and Mary and allusions to the Old Testament’s prophecy- the birth of the Emmanuel. But the most significant aspect of this narrative is the profession of Mary’s faith. Mary who solemnly entrusted herself to God without reservation.

Mary is the prefigured image of the virgin who will usher the coming of the Messiah. This alone made her fit for the position as the mother of Christ. But again the emphasis is not on the symbols but on the active character of Mary, who perfectly, in spite of her lack of understanding, embraced her role in salvation history.

Unlike Mary, most of us doubt God’s presence in our lives. When our expected signs and symbols fail, we assume that God has forsaken us or there has been no God at all. Whenever we feel that things are not going our way, we think that God is against our plan.

The annunciation of the Lord, is our profession of faith in God as his discipleship and friends. Like Mary who articulated her faith in words and action, we should be like her ready to embrace God’s great dream for us no matter the cost will be. That is the cost of discipleship—the following of Jesus.

PRAYER
Lord, we thank You for giving us Your Son, Jesus and also for giving us the mother of the Church, Mary. Mold us each day to be like her that our faith, though at times we may doubt Your presence, may bear Your goodness and grace.