The Gospel Reading for the Annunciation
“But she was much perplexed by his words and pondered what sort of greeting this might be.” (Luke 1:29)
Today we remember the Annunciation, that is, the announcement from the Angel Gabriel to Mary about what God wants of her. After a little bit of back-and-forth, Mary complies with the words, “Here am I, the servant of the Lord; let it be with me according to your word.” (Luke 1: 38: NRSV Translation of the Bible)
In the Gospel according to Luke of the NRSV Translation of the Bible, there are two significant times that Mary” ponders” about what is happening in her time and with herself. The Annunciation is one, the other is when the shepherds revealed their own visit from heaven by angels and told them about the child born in Bethlehem. And again, “But Mary treasured all these words and pondered them in her heart.” (Luke 2:19)
It is from Mary’s pondering that I ponder. It is also why I named this blog in this way, “One Who Ponders.” I ponder about what God is doing in my time, and with me in particular.
Let us pray:
Dear Lord God, who loves us so much as to come among us for our sakes, please help us to build up in ourselves the trusting nature of Mary, the mother of our Lord Jesus, Yourself Incarnate. Help us to see in ourselves a little of what You see in us so that we might live better lives to the glory of your Name. Amen.
Please keep up your thoughts and prayers and hopes for Ukraine and Russia, Israel and Palestine, and our schools including St. Augustine in Raleigh, North Carolina.
As we listen to what the Spirit of God is saying to us, let us live to love and serve, and to teach others to love and serve, while pondering anew what the Almighty can do. John
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