20 December
4th Day of Christmas Novena
Gospel – Luke 1:26-38
On the Fourth Day of the Christmas Novena, we reflect on the profound mystery revealed in the Gospel of Luke 1:26-38, where the angel Gabriel announces to Mary the incarnation of the second Person of the Holy Trinity. Gabriel’s words, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will cover you with its shadow,” unveil the divine plan of salvation, a moment where heaven meets earth through the purity and obedience of a humble young woman. This passage underscores the active presence of the Holy Trinity in the miraculous conception: the Holy Spirit as the source of life, God the Father as the provider of divine protection, and the Son taking on human flesh to dwell among us. Mary, with her profound understanding of this sacred calling, responds with unparalleled faith and humility, declaring, “I am the handmaid of the Lord, let what you have said be done to me.” Her response is not merely an acceptance of her role but a complete submission to God’s will, demonstrating trust and love that stand as a model for all believers. In her “yes,” Mary becomes the living tabernacle of God’s presence, inviting us to follow her openness to the God and reminding us of the transformative power of surrendering to God’s plan in our lives. Let’s reflect: How does the mystery of the Incarnation challenge me to see God’s presence in the ordinary and unexpected moments of my life, and how can I allow this profound truth to shape the way I respond to His call daily?
Don Giorgio