Zec 2:14-17 OR Rv 11:19a; 12:1-6a, 10ab Jdt 13:18bcde, 19 Lk 1:26-38 OR 1:39-47

Weekly Guide for Daily Prayer The Daily Reflections Praying Advent

The first time I celebrated the Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe I was a freshman in high school at Holy Rosary Parish in Southern Illinois. I was drawn in by all the beautiful colors of the little girl’s dresses, the animated dances performed down the aisle, and the devotion each person felt towards Mary. The Spanish Mass sounded like a song but with one semester of high school Spanish under my belt, the only words I understood were those of the Our Father. But this experience made a lasting impact.

Today’s readings speak of Mary’s commitment to God. Despite all of the barriers, she accepted God’s word and became the mother of Christ.

Like Mary, Juan Diego was also a hero of faith. Mary appeared to him, a poor farmer. He witnessed her message to his bishop although few people respected him.

“I am the handmaid of the Lord.” -Luke 1:38

Faith, for me, is not easy. I fall short, I worry, I question, and I doubt. It happens every day in the little things as well as the big things.

That’s one of the many reasons, in my opinion, that we admire the saints, especially Mary. She is the ultimate hero of faith. She looked to God and said, “Let it be done to me according to your word.” She said, “I am the handmaid of the Lord.” Juan Diego, too, was obedient to God's will and faithfully brought Mary’s message to his bishop.

The saints of today take the same leap of faith. They give themselves to God. They admit their shortcomings. They believe God can work through them to accomplish great things.

Lord, give me the courage to seek your will. Grant me the faith to follow you.