Message from Fr. John:  Gospel Reflection (Luke 1:26-38) on this Feast of the Annunciation

“Be not Afraid.”

Last week we heard the angel speak those words to St. Joseph.  Today we hear Gabriel speak those same words to Mary.

During this time of crisis, we can’t hear those words too often.  We need to keep singing in our hearts “Be not afraid.”

Announcements by politicians and the media can stir fear.

We need angels announcing to us, “Be not afraid.”  We need to be angels to one another, calling those who are alone.

Announcing to them the Good News of the Gospel.

​ The angel said to Mary, “The Lord is with you.”

Aloneness does not have to mean isolation.  This feast announces to us that the Lord is also with us.

Holding onto the belief that the Lord is with us, gives us the courage to be not afraid.

Mary received the Annunciation from the angel because she stayed at home that day.

​ We are told to stay at home for different reasons.

Centering ourselves through prayer is another way to stay at home.  It’s a way to be at home with ourselves and with God.

It’s a way for God to find a home within us as He did with Mary.

Mary responded to the Annunciation with her Yes, giving hope to the world.

Each day we receive annunciations from God and God waits for our yes.

We give hope to those around us each time we say yes.  It also tells them “Be not afraid.”