Handmaid of the Lord

Gospel: Lk 1:26-38

https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/122023.cfm

We all share in the human condition. We struggle for control and power. We want the world to work the way we want the world to work. People should act the way we want them to act. Good things should happen to good people. Bad things should happen to bad people. People should always like and support us.

We all have our lists of how things should be. This can come from a good and noble place. It can inspire us to do great things as easily as it can lead us to bad. We want our internal reality to be reality. The problem is that it is not.

Today’s gospel is the Annunciation story according to Luke. This is the third time this gospel was used during this season of Advent. At the end of the story, Mary accepts her fate humbly. She could have imagined how her life was going to be impacted by this experience. It would be easy for her to think of her son becoming an earthly king and her becoming surrounded by riches and power. Instead of doing this, she responds with "Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord. May it be done to me according to your word." (Luke 1:38)

Imagine saying these words for yourself. Is it easier to say them when you experience hardships or successes? These words are a great prayer. Let it help keep you both grounded and open to possibilities.