Word to the Wise
Thursday, December 20, 2012 -
[Isaiah 7:10-14 and Luke 1:26-38]Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord. May it be done to me according to you word.
Mary's response to all that the angel Gabriel says to her is a simple one of faith. She recognizes that she is a servant of God and that she is willing to accept what is in God's "plan" of salvation. Heaven and earth come together in this moment. Pope Benedict XVI has declared this year a "Year of Faith." If we need an example of profound faith, the example of this Palestinian Jewish woman in this particular moment is one of the most inspiring. We know from the previous story of Joseph's dream in the Gospel of Matthew that Mary was not the only one who responded to God's initiative. Joseph's example shines out for us as well.
It is difficult amid the personal demands of this season to think of ourselves as part of something much grander than ourselves and our immediate challenges. It is doubtful that Joseph and Mary would be thinking beyond the immediate challenges of their unexpected pregnancy! They put themselves in the hands of God and moved forward. When we look at the all too familiar nativity scenes in our homes (and elsewhere when it is permitted!), we might pause and realize that the lives of this woman and man were placed at the service of us all, and not just to God. We are the ones who are benefiting from their generosity. The Child in the manger is not simply God's gift, but theirs as well. AMEN
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