Hail Mary, Full of Grace

In this world, we experience a whirlwind of change. How do we envision our future in the midst of this?

During Advent, we can look to a woman who also experienced change. Mary, the mother of Jesus, completely surrendered herself to God’s will. She had to convince herself, her community, and the man to whom she was promised that she was carrying out that will. In the midst of chaos, she had to envision that there was a future— that she would be mother to the Son of God.

What can she teach us?

· Openness: Mary was open to the Spirit. To God working through her, she said “may it be done” (Luke 1:38). By changing the ways we stand in solidarity with people around the globe, can we be more open to doing God’s will?

· Strength: Mary was strong and committed. She possessed the courage to tell Joseph that she was carrying a child, knowing that she could face scorn or punishment. How can we show the strength to respond to God’s call?

· Hope: Jesus’s birth represents hope. Out of the complicated situation of an unwed mother was born the Alpha and Omega. Out of political wrangling and citizens’ rallies can come good. Where can we find and foster hope in ourselves, our communities, and our world?