Posted by The WORD in other words (2022) by Fr Sonnry de Rivera SVD – Rome
Solemnity of the Annunciation of the Lord, March 25
Photo: Wikimedia Commons
Mary’s words are recorded in four passages in the Bible. In Luke’s Gospel, Mary spoke during the Annunciation, her visit to Elizabeth, and when Jesus was lost in the temple. Mary’s intervention in the wedding at Cana is recorded in the Gospel of John.
But it is her dialogue with the Angel Gabriel during the Annunciation that inspires me a lot. I want to single out Mary’s reply, a short sentence that does not speak of glory. It does not talk about privilege but only of willingness to serve: “Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord. May it be done to me according to your word.”
Mary does not exalt herself before the prospect of becoming the mother of the Messiah. Her demeanor towards the great favor from God portrays her as humble and modest. Mary does not try to be noticed. Mary puts herself as small before God. Mary’s yes is to serve her Lord entirely and immediately.
What is the “yes” we can say and respond to? Instead of complaining, let us express our yes to do something for someone. How often is our life made up of postponements and unwillingness to act? Mary invites us not to postpone but to say “yes.” “Must I help others?” How shall I do it? First and foremost, it is a yes in the spirit of Mary, “Let it be to me according to your word.” Once we say our yes, we take a simple step to serve and commit ourselves to the Lord.
I am reminded of the “yes” of Mrs. Hilda, an elderly woman who volunteered in my former parish. Despite her needs and limitations, she tirelessly reached out to others, sharing the little she had. When she had cancer, her yes to serve did not know bounds and constraints. At whatever cost, she continued reaching out to others. When she was on her last days, fatigued and weakened, she prayed for each one, offering her pain. Her last words were, “Yes Lord, here I am, ready to meet you.”
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