Mary’s “Yes”… My “Yes”, too!

In the midst of our Lenten observance, we have another feast to celebrate, the Solemnity of the Annunciation of the Blessed Virgin Mary. This feast commemorates the Angel Gabriel appearing to the young virgin, Mary, that she will bear a son conceived by the Holy Spirit who will be called the Son of the Most High. We celebrate this feast not only for its significance but also to reflect on its impact in the present times.

To many of us, this story is quite familiar especially when we recite the Angelus. But have we stopped to ponder its meaning and the impact of Mary’s faithful fiat (submission to God) on our lives? Many times, I think of Mary not simply saying “yes” to God but the greater self-sacrifice of providing food, clothing, and caring for the house. Notwithstanding the daily tasks to be done, Mary’s uncertainty coupled with the anxiety of public shame along with the possibility of Joseph’s abandonment. It was the life of Mary’s normal life which served as the basis of her unique relationship with and profound dialogue which unfolded between her and God. Pope Francis reminds us during his General Audience, on October 23, 2013, Mary’s “yes” ultimately prepared her for the pain and suffering of watching the brutal death of her son on the cross.

While we might not be given signs as that of Mary, we are no less called to say “yes” to God’s calling in our lives so we can grow in holiness. We need to ponder what is God calling us to say “yes” to especially in this Lenten season. Is he calling us to let go of our disordered attachments to wealth, power, and fame? Or, is He calling us to give up our time on social media (Facebook) so that we have more time to daily prayer and sacrifice? Or is He calling us to give up our favorite food so that we can give alms to the poor? Just like Mary, these little “yeses” can help us grow in our spiritual life and hopefully lead us to our heavenly home.