From Living Faith Daily Catholic Devotions (Oct/Nov/Dec 25)

The Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary

Genesis 3:9-15, 20 + Psalm 98:1-4 + Ephesians 1:3-6, 11-12 + Luke 1:26-38

Mama Mary

‘Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord. Luke 1:38

At the risk of coming off as a Catholic snob, to make sure we’re all on the same page: Today’s feast of the Immaculate Conception refers to the doctrine that Mary was conceived without original sin.  That right there makes her one impressive woman.  In today’s Gospel, we see her with Gabriel. He’s announcing God’s plan and invitation: That, with her yes, she will become pregnant while betrothed, with God’s child no less.

What if Our Blessed Mother had been more concerned with her reputation, the rumours people might spread and how she appeared to others? Her yes – the fiat that brought us Jesus – may have never happened.

Mary is crowned Queen of Heaven and All the Saints, not because she looked the part but because she accepted God’s chosen role for her with grace and trust.

We are called to do no less – to accept our lowliness and to trust God’s sometimes confusing plan so that we may one day gather right alongside Mama Mary in heaven.

□ Kate Wicker