December 20, Monday Advent Weekday

Let the Lord enter; he is the king of glory. — Psalm 24:(see 7 and 10)

Mass reading: Isaiah 7:10-14 / Luke 1:26-38

An Announcement 

When I was a boy my mother invited me into the big city for an afternoon movie. Suddenly, in the midst of the movie a loud announcement was made that the Second World War was over. Everyone burst out into the street shouting and dancing. That was one of the biggest announcements I ever heard, but what Mary heard from the angel Gabriel must have swept her up like a tsunami. 

Even so, in Fra Angelico’s painting she looks so contemplatively peaceful. “Be it done to me according to your word,” she replied, and the world was never the same again. It would prove to be a most difficult life, but to her and her child we owe our deepest joy and thanks.  

Prayer: Hail, Mary, full of grace, be our loving mother, share this day with us.