ANNUNCIATION OF MARY

Today, we celebrate the Feast of the Annunciation of Mary, the Mother of God. This is the day the angel Gabriel announced to Mary that she would bear the Son of God: an ordinary girl, in an ordinary town, receiving an extraordinary message. And Mary’s response to this unfathomable news was one of humble acceptance. She said, “Here am I, the servant of the Lord; let it be with me according to your word” (Luke 1:38).

Friends, St. Mary’s story is not just a beautiful beginning to the greatest story ever told; it’s also a lesson for all of us. In that instant, St. Mary showed us the true power of faith and surrender to God’s will. She didn’t question her capability or the enormity of the task; she simply trusted in God’s plan for her life.

Think about your own life for a moment. How often do we face situations that seem beyond our control or understanding? How often are we called to step out in faith, not knowing where the path may lead? The Annunciation reminds us that, like St. Mary, we are all part of a greater plan, a divine design that we may not fully understand but can fully trust.

Mary’s journey was not an easy one. Bearing and raising Jesus came with unimaginable challenges and sorrows. Yet, her faith never wavered. She remained a steadfast vessel of God’s love and grace throughout her life.

Each of us has our unique purpose and path that God has laid out for us. Let us embrace our journey with faith, just as Mary did. When God calls you to step into the unknown, respond with a heart full of trust, saying, “Let it be with me according to your word.”

Bishop Mesrop Parsamyan
April 7, 2024