Reflection

Advent and the Example of Mary

Imagine being a young woman – no more than a teenager - in a poor, forgotten, occupied corner of a world empire. That is who Mary was. And Mary is the one who God chose to be the mother of Jesus. Mary is the one who got to witness the fulfilment of the promise to Isaiah: “Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign; The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son and will call him Immanuel.” (Isaiah 7:14)

An ordinary, young, poor, oppressed woman gets to play a significant, breakthrough role in the redemption of the world. This tells us something really powerful about our God. It is no mistake that a woman gets to be a part of his plans, and that her voice, her questions, her fears, her actions and her obedience matter. When Mary is told that she will bear this child she asks a reasonable question – “how can this be since I am a virgin?” (Luke 1:34)

Mary is a real person – a person with a voice and an understanding of human biology and a person with questions and fears. “The Holy Spirit will come upon you and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. So the holy one to be born will be called the Son of God.” (Luke 1:35)

Mary’s response is breathtaking: “I am the Lord’s servant, may your word to me be fulfilled” (Luke 1:38)

This is how God works in our world. The power of the Holy Spirit and the obedience and faith of ordinary people.

In this advent season let’s be encouraged by the simple but astonishing faith of a young woman. May we meditate on Mary’s response, on her humility and her willingness to participate in God’s plan. Think about the truth that nothing is impossible with God.

Holy Family of Nazareth, be our inspiration and our guide.

Jesus of Nazareth, help us to grow in Faith, Wisdom and Knowledge.

This Reflection is drawn from the following: 

https://www.propelwomen.org/content/an-advent-reflection-the-simple-astonishing-faith-of-mary/gjeblj