“Behold the maidservant of the Lord! Let it be to me according to your word.” — Saint Luke 1:38

Today is the Feast of Annunciation! God did not choose the Virgin Mary because she held power, influence, or position. He chose her because her heart was empty enough to be filled, humble enough to receive, and faithful enough to say yes. In a world that values strength and self-sufficiency, this truth feels upside down. We try to prove ourselves, to be worthy, to be “enough.” But the mystery of God’s work is this: He fills what is open, not what is full.

The Virgin Mary’s greatness was not in what she had—but in what she surrendered. She did not control the plan; she entrusted herself to it. Her “yes” was not a moment of convenience, but a lifelong offering. As Saint Gregory of Nazianzus writes, “What is not assumed is not healed.” The Virgin Mary offered her whole being, and through her, Christ entered the world to heal it.

This is the invitation for us. God is still seeking hearts like the Virgin Mary’s: hearts that are quiet enough to listen, humble enough to receive, and courageous enough to obey. Often, we are too full—full of pride, fear, plans, and distractions. And so there is little room left for God to work.

Today, ask ourselves: What do we need to empty? What are we holding onto that prevents us from saying “yes”? For God does not force His way into our lives. He waits for our surrender. And when we say “yes,” He fills our ordinary lives with His extraordinary presence.