During December, we see a few readings multiple times. Today’s Gospel reading is a case in point. In fact, it is the exact same Gospel reading we saw on the Feast of the Immaculate Conception and Our Lady of Guadalupe. It is the story of Gabriel coming to announce to Mary that she had been chosen to bear the Son of God.
The reading ends with this: Gabriel said, “Nothing will be impossible for God.” Mary said, “Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord. May it be done to me according to your word.” Then the angel departed from her.
What exactly is a handmaid? It is a servant. Mary did not consider herself to be a queen or a princess or anyone of great importance. She was a servant – a servant of the Lord. What a beautiful example for us. Hopefully we can see ourselves as handmaids of the Lord as well. Whatever he asks, let us happily do.
Father, like Mary, we are your handmaids. We want only to do whatever you ask of us. Give us the grace and strength to do that each day. Amen.
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