The Solemnity of the Annunciation of the Lord

On this day we solemnly recall that day when, by the power of the Holy Spirit, the Word was made flesh in the womb of the Virgin Mary.

For prayer and reflection:

“‘Let it happen to me as you have said’ (Luke 1:34-35, 38). I keep listening to these words as words that summarize the deepest possible response to God’s loving action within us. God wants to let the Holy Spirit guide our lives, but are we prepared to let it happen? Just being with Mary and the angel and hearing their words—words which changed the course of history—bring me peace and rest.”—Henri Nouwen, Road to Daybreak

Spiritual bonus:

On March 25, we also remember Saint Dismas “the Good Thief.” As he was being crucified with Jesus, the Lord promised him, “Today you will be with me in paradise” (Luke 23:43). Saint Dismas is honored as the patron saint of prisoners.

Prayer

O God, who willed that your Word should take on the reality of human flesh in the womb of the Virgin Mary, grant, we pray, that we, who confess our Redeemer to be God and man, may merit to become partakers even in his divine nature. Who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God, for ever and ever. Amen.

(from The Roman Missal)