Study: When have I said “yes” to something important in my life?  What blessings came with this yes?  What challenges came as well?

Pray: Ask the Lord for the wisdom and guidance to say “yes” following the example of Mary.

Serve: How can I help support someone who is preparing to say “yes” to an important decision?  How can I help someone follow through with their choice?

Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary Readings

Fr. Andrew’s Homily

There are times in life when we say “yes” to important decisions.  These are moments when we formally embrace a commitment, a responsibility, and an obligation to live in a certain manner.  At times like these we define ourselves and reveal to others what we value.

Mary’s “yes” to the angel Gabriel professes an acceptance of the Lord’s call at a level of profound power.  Her words testify her openness to allow the Almighty to work through her – becoming the human agent through which the Son of God would come into our world.  The child born in Bethlehem would change human history forever.

Yet this “yes” comes with a poignant cost.  She will face hardship, violence, displacement, and the agony of watching her son suffer upon the Cross.  The cost reveals that our most important decisions are rooted in the reality that parts of life are painfully difficult – we recognize that our choices will place heavy demands upon us.

And yet, Mary’s example can inspire us to know that just as God supported her, God supports us.  Our “yes” is strengthened and sustained by the Lord’s grace.   Jesus suffered, died, and rose that we might have the consolation of his grace to help us.  Our “yes” is not made in isolation; we walk with the Lord who guides us.  May Mary’s intercession direct our words as we follow her example and say YES to her Son – the Lord Jesus Christ!