The Annunciation of the Lord
Isaiah 7:10-14, 8:10; Psalm 40; Hebrews 10:4-10; and Luke 1:26-38.
The word “Annunciation” simply means “announcement.” Nine months before Jesus’ birth, the angel Gabriel was sent to Mary to announce the conception of the Son of God by the power of the Holy Spirit. Mary’s response to this divine assignment was a humble “yes.” She made herself available for the divine task.
As we respond to today’s Psalm, we echo Mary’s sentiments: “Here I am, Lord! I come to do your will.” Beloved, are we available for God’s plan? Are we willing to do His will?
Jesus Himself demonstrated this willingness in Gethsemane, praying, “Not my will, but Thy will be done” (Luke 22:42). In the Lord’s Prayer, we ask that God’s will be done: “Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven” (Matthew 6:10).
Unfortunately, many who initially said “yes” to God have since begun to do their own will, corrupting the true essence of Christianity. Beloved, let us learn from Mary’s example and do God’s will, that we may find eternal peace.
Prayer
O God, who willed that Your Word should take on human flesh in the womb of the Virgin Mary, grant, we pray, that we, who confess our Redeemer to be God and man, may merit to become partakers even in His divine nature. Who lives and reigns with You in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God, for ever and ever. Amen.
Fr. Daniel Evbotokhai
