Imagining this moment in history is not always easy for me.  The Annunciation contains the material and immaterial, the finite and the infinite, and is a moment of spirit and the matter becoming one.  My world is fraught with spirit and matter rubbing against each other causing friction.  In this moment, there is fluid movement. The willingness of two created beings, Gabriel and Mary, combine with the perfect activity of an uncreated being, the Trinity. This movement is for all of our salvation “so that they may all be one.”  JN 17:21.

In this one moment, God is magnified.  “How can this be…”God reveals his omnipotence, “the power of the most high will over shadow you.”  Thus, we profess: “I believe in one God, the Father almighty.”  He reveals that God is the first cause “since I have had no relations with a man…therefore the child to be born shall be called holy, the Son of God.” Hence, we proclaim: “begotten, not made, consubstantial with the Father.”  He reveals God the Holy Spirit, “the Holy Spirit will come upon you.”  Therefore, we say: “and by the Holy Spirit, was incarnate of the Virgin Mary, and became man.”    

Mary’s docility and willingness aided in God revealing Truth.  If you are struggling with doubt today and you are struggling with Faith, look to this moment.   Allow Mary’s “yes” to carry you to a place of life giving Faith.  Lean on her willingness, to dispose you to the Holy Spirit.  “Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord. May it be done to me according to your word.” Lk 1:38

image/public domain: Jan van Eyck “The Annunciation” 1434-1436