Allison Cavazos, Director of Advancement for Catholic Charities of
Central Texas in Austin, reflects on the readings for the Solemnity of
the Immaculate Conception.
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****Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception****
Today's Lectionary Readings
The contrast between today's first reading and Gospel is striking. In
the first reading, Adam hears God's voice but hides in fear, afraid to
stand before God in his nakedness. Mary, though "greatly troubled"
by the angel Gabriel's message to her, responds by offering herself
fully and freely to God.
How often do we hide in fear when we God asks us to step outside of our
comfort zone? Ask yourself: "Has fear kept me from seeking new
opportunities or greater responsibilities? Has it inhibited my ability
to set and pursue wildly audacious goals for my project or program? Has
it kept me from embracing people from different backgrounds, cultures
and ideologies? Has fear kept me from living out God's plan for my
life?"
Remember that
**"In him we were also chosen, destined in accord with the purpose of
the One who accomplishes all things according to the intention of his
will"** (Eph. 1:11). Rather than hiding in fear, let us strive to
follow Mary's example of complete trust in God's plan for our lives.
Let us have the courage to give ourselves fully and freely to God,
trusting that nothing will be impossible for God.
**Allison Cavazos serves as Director of Advancement for **
**Catholic Charities of Central Texas in Austin**.
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