First Reading: (Zechariah 2:14-17)
Responsorial Psalm: (Judith 13:18bcde) "You are the highest honor of our race".
Alleluia
R. Alleluia, alleluia.
Blessed are you, holy Virgin Mary, deserving of all praise; from you rose the sun of justice, Christ our God.
R. Alleluia, alleluia.
Gospel: (Luke 1:26-38)
Reflection
Today’s celebration Our Lady of Guadalupe invites us into a deeper encounter with God dwelling among us- a theme that resonates throughout the readings.
In the First Reading, the prophet Zechariah joyfully proclaims that the Lord comes to dwell in our midst (Zechariah 2:14-17). This isn’t simply a future promise, it is fulfilled in the Incarnation. God does not remain distant; God comes and lives with us.
In the Gospel, we see this mystery unfold in the visitation of the angel Gabriel to Mary. At first, Mary is troubled by the greeting (Luke 1:28), showing her humility and awe. Yet, through faith, she responds with complete openness: “Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord” (Luke 1:38). Her “yes” brings the Word into the world.
Mary’s fiat becomes an example for each of us. When we, like she did, open our hearts to God’s will, we become living tabernacles-places where Christ dwells in the world today. Her feast reminds us that every person called by grace is invited into communion with God that transforms fears into trust, plans into surrender, and ordinary life into extraordinary service.
Finally, the Responsorial Psalm exalts Mary as “the highest honor of our race” (Judith 13:18bcde). Her beauty is not worldly, but spiritual, a model of faith and hope. Her life invites us to say yes to God’s presence in our own lives, confident that God’s dwelling among us brings salvation, peace, and joy.
As we reflect on these readings on this feast day, let us ask Mary to help us echo her faithful response, welcoming Christ into our hearts and allowing His presence to dwell within us and through us.
Ref: USCCB
God bless you
Pal Ronnie
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