Thoughts for another day

December 23, 2008.

Today's verse: Lk. 1:35. And the angel answered and said unto her, The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the Highest shall overshadow thee: (KJV)
(Pls. read the above before you read further. Thanks)

Jesus’ birth through Mary, whom the Catholic Church venerates as mother is probably one of the greatest mysteries belonging to heaven: because, Mary conceived Jesus without any human intervention. In fact, even as Mary delivered, she was a virgin who’d never known a man. Besides, many of us who’ve pondered about the immensity of the Lord, will always wonder, how He, being so big, made Himself so small, notwithstanding of course that He is all powerful. A great mystery no doubt.

I’ve thought about the above verse and it indeed excites me. The overshadowing of the Holy Spirit, because of which Mary, the highly favored one, becomes His spouse. Although the Bible does not expressly say, this overshadowing happened only to Mary for she, the humble virgin, betrothed of Joseph, simply said a yes when the angel Gabriel gave her the message that she would bear the Son of the Most High, without knowing what it may lead to. Ah, to be overshadowed…completely covered by the Holy Spirit, what a privilege!

By her simple ‘let it be done to me according to your word’ she reaps an eternal title of ‘Mother of God’ and in a way, is our mother too, because we consider the Father, ‘our Father’ and hence Jesus happens to be our brother in the Word. Let us remember that if we are to reap the immense Grace of God, we need to become like Mary. Not knowing what’s in store but saying ‘yes’ nevertheless to God’s will.

This Christmas, in opening our hearts to God’s love, let us also open the minds of our hearts in telling Him that we are willing to go His way, no matter what. Having said that, let us look around at those who are lesser fortunate and be their help and solace. Look at those who are lonely and give them the love of Jesus, so that He will fill your heart with His light of joy.