TODAY’S GOSPEL READING
25 MARCH, 2025
Luke 1:26-38
The angel Gabriel was sent from God
to a town of Galilee called Nazareth,
to a virgin betrothed to a man named Joseph,
of the house of David,
and the virgin’s name was Mary.
And coming to her, he said,
“Hail, full of grace! The Lord is with you.”
But she was greatly troubled at what was said
and pondered what sort of greeting this might be.
Then the angel said to her,
“Do not be afraid, Mary,
for you have found favor with God.
Behold, you will conceive in your womb and bear a son,
and you shall name him Jesus.
He will be great and will be called Son of the Most High,
and the Lord God will give him the throne of David his father,
and he will rule over the house of Jacob forever,
and of his Kingdom there will be no end.”
But Mary said to the angel,
“How can this be,
since I have no relations with a man?”
And the angel said to her in reply,
“The Holy Spirit will come upon you,
and the power of the Most High will overshadow you.
Therefore the child to be born
will be called holy, the Son of God.
And behold, Elizabeth, your relative,
has also conceived a son in her old age,
and this is the sixth month for her who was called barren;
for nothing will be impossible for God.”
Mary said, “Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord.
May it be done to me according to your word.”
Then the angel departed from her.
THE GOSPEL OF THE LORD!
REFLECTION
This passage recounts the angel Gabriel’s announcement to Mary that she will bear the Son of God. Despite her initial fear and uncertainty, Mary responds with faith and humility, saying, “Let it be done to me according to your word.” Her trust in God’s plan is a powerful example of surrender and obedience. Like Mary, we are often faced with situations that challenge our understanding, yet God calls us to trust in Him. This passage reminds us that God’s plans are greater than our own, and when we say “yes” to Him, He works through us in amazing ways.
PRAYER
Heavenly Father, thank You for the example of Mary’s faith and obedience. Help us to trust in Your plans, even when they seem beyond our understanding. Give us the courage to say “yes” to Your will, knowing that You are always with us. May we, like Mary, be open to Your grace and ready to serve You with a willing heart. Amen
