The body of Jesus Christ became incarnate in the womb of the Blessed Virgin Mary. She conceived by the overshadowing of the Holy Spirit. Mary's fully human nature was freely joined to the Holy Spirit's divine nature. Thus the body of the Infant Jesus was perfectly formed and prepared for redeeming and saving fallen humanity.
In the Mass, we celebrate the marriage of the Holy Spirit and Mary, as well as the Fruit of her womb, Jesus, the Second Person of the Holy Trinity. Jesus' Body was prepared by the Spirit for Him — but also was prepared for our benefit, redemption, and salvation.
God gave up His Son out of love for the world (Jn 3:16). Mary offered her body and her Son for our redemption. Jesus offered His Body for our salvation and healing. To be sure we don't miss the point, Jesus said and continues to say through the priest at every Mass: "This is My Body, to be given up for you" (see 1 Cor 11:24). Therefore, respond by telling Him, "This is my body, to be given up for You." On this feast of the Annunciation, offer your body to God as a living sacrifice (Rm 12:1).
| PRAYER: | Father, I am all Yours. May I glorify You in my body (1 Cor 6:20). |
| PROMISE: | "Great will be His dignity and He will be called Son of the Most High." –Lk 1:32 |
| PRAISE: | The Archangel Gabriel foretold the birth of John the Baptist (Lk 1:13). Then he made the greatest announcement of all time to Mary: You will be the mother of God (see Lk 1:31-33). |
Reprinted with permission from Presentation Ministries, a lay association of the Catholic Church that focuses on evangelization and discipleship through Bible teaching, daily Mass, the charisms of the Holy Spirit, and Small Christian Community. Their ministries include:
· One Bread, One Body
· Daily Bread Radio Program
· Annual Bible Institute
· Discipleship Retreats
· Guadalupe Bible College