The Solemnity if the Annunciation of the Lord

Ish. 7:10-14.8:10, Heb. 10:4-10, Lk. 1:26-38. The Annunciation heralds the beginning of our salvation by which Mary’s obedient "Yes" help us to encounter God in a new way. Today's first reading presents us with the fulfilment of Isaiah’s prophecy and the unfolding of God’s plan of redemption in the events that leads to Incarnation, the birth of the Messiah King. The new era of salvation begins with the miraculous conception of Jesus in the womb of Mary. Mary’s prompt response of “yes” in today's Gospel, to the divine message is a model of faith for all believers. Today we are witnesses to the kind of submission and obedience we should have towards God’s Word and will.

When we submit our lives to God’s will, we allow God to sanctify us and become more like Jesus. Submission to God develops within us a humble heart and can only bring us many blessings. Submission to our Lord would require that we re-align our lives according to His plan. Our Mother Mary had to adjust to the demands of the role God gave her to be Mother of Jesus. Likewise, being a Christian means we have to align our lives according to the norms and values that Jesus has set for us. We have to properly align under God’s authority, His Word and His plan. Submission to God means saying to Him on a daily basis, “not my will but your will be done." It demands saying it with full conviction and determination that God will prevail in our lives despite everything that can befall us.

May the Lord give me the strength to submit our life to Jesus amidst trials and difficulties of this life! Amen!! Good morning and have a productive week!!!