comment
God’s plan is filled with surprises that may be different from our own expectations. The Annunciation is one of these moments in God’s plan and Mary’s response is a perfect example of how we should welcome God’s surprises.
David expected that God’s promise would involve an earthly kingdom, but God instead had in mind an everlasting kingdom. God’s promise to David would be ultimately fulfilled through a humble soul, that of Mary, who trusted completely in the Lord. Mary is bewildered when she first hears the angel’s message. Gabriel reveals that she will bear a son who will be both Son of God and Son of David, the promised Messiah. When reassured that the angel is God’s messenger, Mary responds in faith, with a generous and open heart. Mary is the model believer whose deep faith and trust in God is an example for us all to imitate.
Mary heard God’s voice in the voice of God’s messenger. As we await the birth of our Lord, we are invited to quiet our hearts and listen for God’s voice in our daily lives. Let us be surprised by the ways of God.