Reflection for Friday, December 8, 2000: Immaculate Conception of Blessed Virgin Mary, Solemnity.
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Authors
Kline, Steve
Issue Date
2000-12-08
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Essay
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en_US
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Abstract
"I heard you in the garden, but I was afraid . . . " Genesis 3:10||"In love, he destined us for adoption to himself through Jesus Christ, in accord with the favor of his will . . . "|"Do not be afraid, Mary . . . " Luke 1:30|Today, the Feast of the Immaculate Conception, we celebrate the goodness of God -- His genius and undying love for us.|We celebrate God's gift of mother-love. We rejoice in the example of Mary's trust, her simple "Yes" to God, from which flows our only hope.|We celebrate freedom from fear.|Have I avoided God because "I was afraid?" Yes. That happens when I am driven by fear and shame and the mistaken belief that I alone can do something -- anything -- about it. I avoid God, I avoid other people, I avoid all the possibilities of life. This is as sad as today's Genesis story of betrayal, defiance and loss.|But today's Psalm urges joy: "Sing to the Lord a new song, for he has done marvelous deeds." Betrayal, defiance and loss do not mark the end of the story!|Marvelous indeed: God gave us Mary, whose troubled reaction to the words of the angel quickly turns to perfect surrender to the loving will of God.|Marvelous indeed: Fear is transformed to trust, to hope, to salvation, because God loves us as much and more than any mother loves her child. Can it be that simple?|Yes. Advent is here. Expect marvelous deeds.
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University Ministry, Creighton University.
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These reflections may not be sold or used commercially without permission. Personal or parish use is permitted.
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Lectionary number: 689