Women farmers in El Salvador with their banana plants. They have had training in how to care for the natural environment and farm sustainably
And Mary said, ‘Behold, I am the servant of the Lord; let it be to me according to your word.’
On this feast day of the Immaculate Conception, we are reminded how Mary is chosen from the very beginning of her existence for her crucial role as the Mother of Christ.
In our world today, women are still often too easily dismissed, viewed as objects, or subjected to violence. Yet Mary, a young, seemingly unimportant girl, who is not from a wealthy family or a significant social background, is chosen by God to change the future of all humanity.
Even though it must have been a daunting and completely unexpected turn of events, we hear Mary’s emphatic “Yes” to all that is asked of her.
God has a plan for all of us. But it is up to us to listen to God calling in our lives, and just like Mary, to willingly agree to what is asked of us.
This is not easy. It takes courage. It may require us to let go of what we had planned for ourselves, recognising that we do not have all the answers. Instead, we trust in God, knowing that God will be with us through it all, guiding us along our path.
So, this Advent, we pray that we will be willing to follow Our Lady’s example of faithfulness and courage. Let us open ourselves up to be the person that God has always known and wants us to be.
As we focus on Our Lady today, we also hold in our hearts all girls and women throughout the world, especially those who face violence, discrimination or poverty.
Advent prayer
Mary, Mother of God,
pray for us today and always,
that we may have the courage
to answer God’s call.
Together may we build a world that
fulfils God’s plan for us
and where everyone’s dignity is respected.
Amen.
Act
Find out more about our work supporting women and girls who are facing violence and poverty and the impact recent aid cuts have had on them.
