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Today's Gospel: Luke 1:26-38

I was so excited to find out that today is the Solemnity of the Annunciation of the Lord! When I reflect on the Annunciation (and I do, often, as it’s one of my favorite mysteries of the Holy Rosary), two parts of this Gospel jump out at me.

First of all, when the Angel Gabriel announces to Mary that she will bear Jesus, the Gospel tells us that, “She was greatly troubled at what was said.” To know that Mary was “greatly troubled” is of great comfort to me.

There are many instances in my life when I feel “greatly troubled.” Sometimes it is just because my day has fallen apart in many small ways (nothing prepared for dinner, cranky kids, etc.), but other times it is because I can’t fathom that God allowed something to happen.

Our next door neighbors lost their beloved 8-year-old son when a distracted driver hit him with her car almost three years ago. We weren’t neighbors then, but they have warmly welcomed us to the neighborhood and we now call them friends. When my own son gets off the bus every day (right in front of this neighbor’s house), I feel great joy and gratitude, but also so troubled as I consider that such a tragedy could happen to any family at any time. I instantly bring my discomfort to Mary in silent prayer. It is so nice to know that my Blessed Mother was also troubled at times and pondered God’s will in her heart.

The other part of the Gospel that jumps out at me is when Mary said, “Behold I am the handmaid of the Lord. May it be done to me according to your word.” I love Mary’s confidence. Although she was troubled and did not fully understand what was happening, she boldly accepts God’s will. I love to say the same words in prayer: “May it be done to me according to your word.” But I find them so scary to say. God’s will can bring tremendous joy and peace, but often the road to such joy and peace is fraught with great suffering. I say Mary’s words asking the Holy Spirit to always make me worthy of my prayers.

Ponder:

What do you do to feel better and strengthen your faith and resolve when you are “greatly troubled?”

Pray:

Blessed Mother, please help me to obtain all the graces that I need to accept God’s will in my life … especially when I don’t understand it.

Copyright 2014 Trish Bolster