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SOMETHING TO THINK AND PRAY ABOUT THIS WEEK
A Huge Leap of Faith
We are so familiar with the story of the Annunciation that it can be easy to take Mary’s faith for granted. It’s easy to forget that Gabriel’s message opened up a vast new horizon for Mary. He didn’t give Mary any human guarantees; he didn’t offer her a familiar or secure way forward. He took her completely out of her comfort zone. Everything about this singular episode demanded a huge leap of faith: it was already hard enough to accept that an angel was speaking to her; it was even more difficult to believe that a virgin could conceive, but who could imagine that any woman could possibly become God’s own mother! Gabriel was painting a picture that bordered on the preposterous. Mary didn’t stop to think about the sheer unlikelihood of what was being announced. If she had, she would most likely have refused to believe. Mary’s focus was on God. She believed enough in God’s power and love to accept the message that Gabriel communicated to her. She plunged wholeheartedly into the limitless ocean of God as she said: ‘Behold the servant of the Lord, let it be done unto me according to your word’ (Luke 1:38).
Thomas Casey SJ, Smile of Joy: Mary of Nazareth
We remember at this time...
Lord, you are our refuge and strength, a very present help in times of trouble. We remember how you sent your angels to guard and protect those in danger, and we ask that you would send your armies of angels into places around the world torn apart by bombs and drones. Shield those who are vulnerable and preserve life amid destruction.
Lord, please bring peace on the earth. Bring the light of your truth to those who make decisions about war. And guide them toward justice and reconciliation.
When evil seems to be winning, open our eyes to see that you are at work, surrounding us with your heavenly hosts. Free us from fear and help us to trust in your almighty power, love and your perfect plan. Amen.
Sacred Space – Daily Prayer for 25 Years
Sacred Space began in 1999 and has offered new content every day since then. You can learn more about Sacred Space on our About page, or if you are a regular, you can share your Sacred Space Story on our Feedback page. For our 25th anniversary, we are featuring stories from people for whom Sacred Space has played a special part in their lives. Please consider sharing your Sacred Space Story.
Sacred Space Feedback