Solemnity of the Annunciation of the Lord
(Isaiah 7:10-14.8:10; Hebrews 10:4-10; Luke 1:26-38)
St. Paul critiques the seeking of signs in I Corinthians. He calls the practice typically Jewish. In today’s first reading and in the gospel
two Jews are presented with signs. One
ignores his; the other follows up on hers.
King Ahaz refuses to ask God for a sign as Isaiah advises. He claims that he does not wish to tempt
God. But that is a religious
pretense. He does not want to admit the possibility
of Isaiah’s warning that an alliance with Syria will bring about disaster. The Virgin Mary graciously accepts her sign. She does not hesitate to confirm the sign that
she will give birth to God’s Son.
Directly from the place of the annunciation, she visits Elizabeth now pregnant
in old age.
Beyond attesting that Mary would conceive by the Holy
Spirit, Elizabeth’s pregnancy signifies that “nothing will be impossible for
God.” He can make people as simple as we bearers of the gospel. Like Mary we can be servants of the Lord ready
to act according to His word.
