Today the Church celebrates the Solemnity of the Annunciation of the Lord, the pivotal moment when the Archangel Gabriel appeared to the Virgin Mary to announce the Incarnation of Christ.
This "announcement" marks the moment God entered the world anew, seeking human freedom to begin the work of redemption. Here are 5 things to know about this mystery:
1. The Meaning of Annunciation: Derived from the same root as "announce," this is simply an old-fashioned way of saying "announcement." Gabriel is announcing the central mystery of our faith: the Incarnation, or God becoming man in the person of Jesus.
2. A Moveable Solemnity: We celebrate on March 25 because it is exactly nine months before Christmas. However, if this date falls during Holy Week, it is superseded by those higher liturgical days and transferred to the Monday after the second Sunday of Easter.
3. Faith vs. Skepticism: While both Zechariah and Mary asked Gabriel questions, their attitudes were different. Zechariah asked for proof out of skepticism; Mary asked how the words would be fulfilled, showing an attitude of faith seeking understanding.
4. Perpetual Virginity: Mary’s statement, "since I do not know man," indicates she was a consecrated virgin. Despite being legally married to Joseph, her question reveals she did not plan on an ordinary marriage, a tradition held since the second century.
5. The Weight of the "Fiat": Mary’s "Yes" was a free and magnanimous act of obedience. As St. Bernard of Clairvaux described, heaven and earth held its breath at this moment; God made Himself "dependent" on the free choice of a human being to save us.
Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us.
Jonathan Fabian Ginunggil,
Most High Servant,
Jesus, Mary, Joseph Ministry of Love
(Blessed and Saints and the Nine Choirs of Angels)
Most High Servant,
Jesus, Mary, Joseph Ministry of Love
(Blessed and Saints and the Nine Choirs of Angels)
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