NOTE: Throughout the Advent season, we’ll post a reflection on the readings for the upcoming Sunday and for feast days just a few days before so individuals and groups can reflect in anticipation or incorporate it into their meetings, homilies, etc. The reflection will be available on our homepage through the weekend and then archived on our Advent 2024 webpage.
The reflection below is written by Judy Coode from the 2010 Advent reflection booklet. This year’s booklet is still available for purchase at this link as an immediate download for your tablet or e-reader for $2.50.
by Judy Coode
Genesis 3:9-15, 20 | Ephesians 1:3-6, 11-12 | Luke 1:26-38
God chose us in Christ before the world began, to be holy and blameless in God’s sight, to be full of love. (Ephesians 1:4)
One of the few infallible Church teachings, the Immaculate Conception of Mary celebrates a woman who said “yes” when God called. Mary and her son Jesus, with their acceptance of God’s will, reversed the “no” expressed by Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden. Despite her lack of education, her lack of social standing, the serious jeopardy in which her pregnancy would place her, Mary gave her trust to her Creator and chose life over fear. During this quiet time of Advent, in the darkness, we consider this profound act of faith that led to this very season.
For reflection:
- Close your eyes and reflect on a time when you were called. What did you answer?
- How has that made a difference in your life?
*This reflection originally appeared in Pax Christi USA’s Advent reflection booklet, The Presence of God: Reflections for Advent 2010.