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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