The “God-bearer” for all
Today, we celebrate the Feast of the Immaculate Conception. This day our Church recognizes that Mary, Mother of God, was conceived without sin. What a gift for humanity that a human being came into this world without sin. It can seem that there is much to separate our humanity from that of the Mother of God. And yet we remember that she is human, just like us.
In today’s Gospel, the angel Gabriel shares with Mary the news that she will bear the Son of God. A young Hebrew girl, (between 12-14) became the “God-bearer” for all.
Gabriel’s greeting – “Hail Mary, full of grace. The Lord is with you” – is meant to put our young mother at ease. Yet regardless of how unworthy or scared she must have felt, we have confirmation of her words and willingness to say “yes” to God. “Behold, I am a handmaid of the Lord. May it be done unto me according to your word.” She sets her place in the story of salvation by assuming a posture of deep humility and resolve.
Her ‘yes’ or ‘fiat’ also challenges us to say “yes” to being in right relationship with God, and provides an example for us on how to do so.
The early church quickly ascribed other names to Mary, such as Theotokos, Greek for “God-bearer.” This Advent, Mary the God-bearer offers each of us the opportunity to seek right relationship with one another, and with our God. Let us follow the example of our Theotokos.
Question for Reflection:
- What would it mean to be able to walk through this world aware that you are always in ‘right relationship’ with our God?
- When is a time you have said “yes” to God?
- What are the services you provide at your agency that are the “yes” to God’s call?
- How are you saying “yes” to God during this Advent?
Genevieve Mougey is Executive Director of Catholic Charities of Wyoming.