Reflection: Luke 1:26-38

Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception – Luke 1:26-38

Today is the solemnity of the Immaculate Conception.  Naturally the Gospel for this feast is Luke’s version of the angel’s announcement to Mary that she was to bear a child.  However, this child would be conceived in an unusual and unexpected way.  We all know the story of the angel’s appearance to Mary, the message that was proclaimed to Mary, as well as Mary’s response.  It is clear by her immediate response to the angel that Mary was a woman of deep faith and trust.  Yet, being human, she also had to be puzzled, shocked and uncertain about what the angel’s pronouncement would mean for her.  

Can you imagine the thoughts and concerns that must have raced through Mary’s mind in that moment?  She had to be shocked, anxious and unnerved.  Yet, she trusted the God who knew her and loved her.  Mary’s trust in God enabled her to willingly place herself and her life in God’s hands.  And in that instant, her life took a completely different path than she expected.  

What a model Mary is for us!  Mary truly was an amazing and holy woman.  Yet she was very human.  Luke writes: “Mary was greatly troubled by the angel’s message.”  What were the thoughts and emotions that raced through Mary’s mind and heart when she heard the angel’s words?  Did she think she was going crazy?  The whole situation was unbelievable.   

However, Mary was deeply rooted in God.  Even though she was confused and most likely unnerved, Mary was open and receptive to God and to God’s call.  Mary must have wondered what this would mean for her and her life, as well as for her betrothal to Joseph.  How would this unfold?  What was she to tell her parents?  Yet Mary simply had complete faith and trust in God.  She freely and willingly assented to God’s plan for her!  

Most likely, we will not have an angel appearing to us asking us to bear God’s child.  However, even if an angel does not come to us, we also are called to be “Christ Bearers.”  How will we respond to God’s call?  Will we trust the God who is calling us?  Will we believe that God will walk this road with us?  When we are fearful, we can turn to Mary.  She will journey with us.  And she will remind us that our God is a God who is completely trustworthy.  Today and every day, may we ask Mary to journey with us!