What is Advent?
Advent, meaning "arrival," signifies the start of a season or the arrival of a person. We celebrate Advent to honor the arrival of Jesus, whose birth we commemorate during Christmas. This season is a time of anticipation and preparation for the coming of Christ.
Anticipating the Divine
Mary's story is one of anticipation. A young woman living an ordinary life is suddenly thrust into an extraordinary plan. The angel Gabriel appears to Mary, not with a request, but with a proclamation: she is to become the mother of the Son of God. Despite the unimaginable role placed upon her, Mary receives this news with grace, beauty, and obedience.
Faith Over Fear
Mary's anticipation of the divine is marked by faith, not fear. She does not question God's plan but willingly submits to it with humility. This teaches us that God values humility and obedience over status and power. In our own lives, we too are called to anticipate the divine, to look for God's hand in our circumstances, and to trust His plan.
God is Not Distant
Especially during this time of year, many feel that God is distant. However, Mary's story reminds us that God is a loving Father who wants to involve Himself in the lives of His children. He chose Mary, a humble servant, to play a crucial role in His plan of salvation. This shows that God values humility and obedience over status and power.
Mary's Faithful Response
Mary was an ordinary girl propelled into an extraordinary situation. Betrothed to Joseph, she receives a message from the angel Gabriel that would change the course of history. Gabriel's message, "Do not be afraid, Mary; you have found favor with God," reassures her. Mary's response is one of faith and obedience: "I am the Lord's servant, may your word to me be fulfilled."
Trust in God's Plan
Mary's deep trust and faith in God are evident in her willingness to step into the unknown. She believed in the one who called her by name, even if it meant bearing scorn and ridicule. Her response speaks to the power of faith and the importance of obedience. In a world that values independence and self-reliance, Mary's surrender to God's will is a powerful example for us all.
The Journey Towards the Birth of Salvation
Mary's journey began with a simple "yes" to God, a profound act of faith that changed the course of history. Her willingness to embrace the unknown, guided by her faith and trust in God, is a testament to her unwavering belief in His promises.
Embracing the Unknown
There are times in our lives when we must embrace the unknown, trusting that God knows what is best for us. Mary's faith was not dependent on her circumstances or feelings but was rooted in her trust in God's word and promises. As we consider our own response to God's call, we are challenged to say "yes" to whatever He asks of us, to step out of our comfort zones, and to trust in His promises.
Life Application
Mary's story challenges us to live out our faith in tangible ways. We are called to be active participants in God's plan, offering our "yes" to Him and trusting in His promises. This week, consider how you can embrace the wonder of anticipation in your own life.
Questions to Reflect On:
1. Are you willing to say "yes" to whatever God calls you to do, even if it means stepping out of your comfort zone?
2. How can you trust in God's promises for your life, even when the future seems uncertain?
3. In what ways can you be an active participant in God's plan, using your spiritual gifts to help build up others?
Challenge for the Week:
This week, take a moment each day to anticipate the divine in your life. Look for God's hand in your circumstances and trust in His plan. Like Mary, be willing to say "yes" to God, embracing the unknown with faith and trust. Let this Advent season be a time of renewed faith and anticipation of the wonder of God's work in your life.
As we reflect on Mary's story this Advent season, let us be inspired by her faith and willingness to say "yes" to God. May her example challenge us to live out our faith in tangible ways, to be active participants in God's plan, and to embrace the wonder of the journey with faith and trust. May we find, as Mary did, that the journey is filled with wonder, beauty, and the presence of God. Amen.
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