12/20/2025 (Saturday) Today’s Gospel reading: Luke 1:26-38

26 And in the sixth month, the angel Gabriel was sent from God into a city of Galilee, called Nazareth,
27 to a virgin betrothed to a man named Joseph, of the house of David, and the virgin’s name was Mary.
28 And coming to her, he said, “Hail, full of grace! The Lord is with you.” blessed are you among women.
29 But she was greatly troubled at what was said and pondered what sort of greeting this might be.
30 Then the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God.
31 Behold, you will conceive in your womb and bear a son, and you shall name him Jesus.
32 He will be great and will be called Son of the Most High, and the Lord God will give him the throne of David his father, and he will rule over the house of Jacob forever,
33 And of his kingdom there shall be no end.
34 But Mary said to the angel, “How can this be, since I have no relations with a man?”
35 And the angel said to her in reply, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. Therefore the child to be born will be called holy, the Son of God.
36 And behold your cousin Elizabeth, she also has conceived a son in her old age; and this is the sixth month with her who is called barren:
37 Because no word shall be impossible with God.
38 And Mary said: Behold the handmaid of the Lord; be it done to me according to your word. And the angel departed from her.

12/20/2025 (Saturday) Today’s Gospel reflection / homily / sermon: Luke 1:26-38

The Gospel passage on the Annunciation brings us to a quiet yet world-changing moment where God enters human history not through power or spectacle, but through a simple conversation and a willing heart. In this passage, we encounter words spoken by God and words spoken in response, words that calm fear, awaken hope, and invite trust. These are not merely ancient expressions; they are living words that continue to speak into our modern lives, addressing our anxieties, our doubts, and our longing for purpose. Let us now focus on the following points:

1. Grace / Favor
This reminds us that God’s action in our lives is not earned but freely given. Today, it assures us that our worth is not based on achievements but on God’s loving choice.

2. Do not be afraid
Fear is a common human response to uncertainty. This message encourages modern believers to face life’s unknowns—career changes, illness, or new responsibilities—with courage grounded in trust.

3. God is with you
This is a promise of presence, not just assistance. In a world where loneliness is widespread, it assures us that we are never abandoned, even in silent struggles.

4. You are chosen
God’s call is personal. This inspires us today to recognize that our lives have meaning and purpose, even if we feel ordinary or overlooked.

5. The Holy Spirit will act
This points to divine power beyond human limitation. It reminds us that transformation—personal, social, or spiritual—does not rely solely on our strength.

6. Nothing is impossible with God
This declaration challenges modern skepticism and despair. It inspires hope in situations that seem beyond repair: broken relationships, injustice, or personal failure.

7. Questioning with faith
Mary’s honest questioning shows that faith allows room for understanding. Today, it reassures us that sincere questions are part of mature belief, not a lack of it.

8. Trust beyond understanding
Acceptance without full clarity teaches surrender. In today’s fast-paced world that demands control, this inspires us to let God lead even when the path is unclear.

9. Humility
God’s plan unfolds through someone humble, not powerful. This challenges modern values of status and reminds us that humility opens space for grace.

10. Obedience
Mary’s willingness models active faith. It inspires us to say yes to God not only in prayer, but in daily decisions, service, and moral courage.

11. Servanthood
Seeing oneself as a servant reframes success. Today, it calls us to lives of generosity, compassion, and responsibility toward others.

12. Let God’s word be fulfilled
This expresses total trust. It inspires believers today to align their lives with God’s purpose rather than forcing personal agendas.

As we reflect on these inspiring words, we are invited to listen as Mary did with openness, humility, and courage. Each phrase carries a timeless message that guides us from uncertainty to faith, from fear to surrender, and from ordinary life to participation in God’s extraordinary plan. Together, they remind us that God still speaks, still calls, and still accomplishes the impossible through those who are willing to say yes.

Go here to read further Gospel reflection.