Mary’s “Yes” to her Vocation can Inspire us to Reply “Yes” to Ours
As we focus on our own vocations in life, let us remember the simple woman who responded perfectly to God’s call for her life! In fact, many parallels can be made between Mary’s calling and our own callings from God. In his homily given on the feast of the Annunciation, 1621, St. Francis de Sales preached on religious life:
“The dedication which young ladies make of their hearts to the Divine Majesty they would never have had the desire to make if the Sovereign Spouse of their souls had not drawn them and assisted them with His grace.”
Comparing religious life to Our Lady’s vocation, St Francis says she was alone in her room when the Angel came to greet her and bring her the news of the Incarnation to take place within her. Likewise,
“What do religious do but remain in their cells and enjoy conversation with their Spouse.They retire into the depths of their hearts where they live in solitude”
Let us draw courage from Mary’s “Fiat”, to make our own “yes” to God’s will. Please read our article, “The Call at the Annunciation.”
For reflection:
- At the Annunciation, God’s will was made know very clearly through Gabriel! Although our vocational callings are often more subtle, in what ways we can better open our ears – and hearts – to hear God’s will? Particularly in Lent, how can we answer God’s call?
- Meditate on the scene which took place during the Annunciation. What emotions do you imagine Mary experiencing?
- Shortly after the Annunciation, Mary travels to visit her cousin Elizabeth, who already knows the good news! Do we celebrate with joy once we recognize God’s call in our lives?
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