Today we celebrate the solemnity of the Annunciation, which falls during Lent. This could be puzzling and, at some point, disappointing for our spiritual journey as we prepare to enter the last week before the Holy Week of the Passion and death of our Lord.
While the Holy week and all that precedes it points to the suffering of the Lord, the solemnity of the Annunciation comes to remind us the true meaning of what we celebrate during Lent: that beyond suffering, grief and sorrow, there always is the light of the joy that comes from the Lord’s victory to which we are invited to participate and to partake. The Lord is always victorious. Therefore, the Annunciation foretells the exultation of the resurrection and the joy we experience therein.
Today we are invited to experience the joy the Lord brings to us. Amidst the challenges and uncertainties of this world, especially with the COVID-19 pandemic which brings the temptation to embrace hopelessness and discouragement, the solemnity of the Annunciation comes to give us the assurance that beyond every challenge, there always is a victory that transforms us. Therefore, let us listen to the message the angel Gabriel is delivering to the Virgin Mary today: “Do not be afraid, for you have found favor with God.” These words are even more meaningful today. They comfort us as we face the challenges of the present pandemic and makes us get ready for the celebration of Easter.
May the joy of the Annunciation fill your hearts and bring you the assurance of the Lord’s Victory over every situation that nurtures feelings or attitudes of hopelessness and despair.
Fr. Emery