LUKE 1:26–38 JOY THAT SAYS “YES”

Year A, Saturday of the 3rd Week of Advent

In today’s Gospel, we encounter Mary at a moment that changes everything. The angel’s message is unexpected and overwhelming, yet Mary responds with openness and faith. Her joy does not come from understanding every detail, but from trusting completely in God’s promise.

Mary’s “yes” is not spoken without fear or questions. Still, she chooses to believe that God is at work within her life. This is the joy of Advent—a joy rooted in surrender, courage, and hope. When we place our lives in God’s hands, joy flows naturally, even amid uncertainty.

As we near Christmas, Mary teaches us that joy grows when we make room for Christ. Her willingness to serve allows God’s love to enter the world in a powerful and humble way. Like Mary, we are invited to open our hearts and say yes—yes to God’s grace, yes to love, and yes to new beginnings.

May this Gospel inspire us to welcome Christ with the same joyful trust, knowing that when God is present, nothing is impossible.

Question to Ponder: What is God inviting me to say “yes” to this Advent so that Christ’s joy may grow within me?

With Love and Prayers

Your Co-Traveler

Fr. Leo