A story of Life and Death

Today salvation came to the world, for today the Virgin Mary holds in her womb the uncontainable God, by choice.

This is no ordinary feast day.

Everything hung upon the decision of a young woman, Mary. No, this was not predestination, as erroneously held by some, and yes, she was pure, born under the same sentence as we, having come from the offspring of parents who were living on earth, also subjected to the condition as a result of the sin of Adam and Eve, death and destruction.

Today, joy is revealed to a pure maiden, that upon agreement, she would be the Theotokos, Mother of God, The God bearer. God has found favor upon her. The Son of God, who in His birth will restore humanity to its rightful state by destroying death by His Death. All that was required by her was, YES. We are all given the chance to accept God's will. He is not a God who forces anything on us, nor did He force Himself onto Mary. She was given the "free will" choice presented by Angel Gabriel. Mary, could have said no. God knew she wouldn't. The road ahead would not be easy for a young Jewish maiden, nor all the ways that would pierce her heart. The heart of a mother is generous with compassion and love for her offspring. Mary did not have any other children, as some erroneously think. Jesus was her only child, the Son she delivered, and who, upon her death, delivered her.

Today is a story of Life and Death. A life that began in the womb. "The Son of God becomes the Son of Mary. A great mystery is revealed. Mary's, decision, was made manifest and He dwelt in her womb. Mary, Theotokos, above all creatures, O Pure One, Rejoice O full of Grace, the Lord is with you. It is He that will and has, vanquished death for all eternity, our God, your Son and the hope of all humanity.

This is a story about Life. A Life that springs Eternal. Life that is offered to you and me. That begins in the womb of Mary.

As Angel Gabriel knew, this was no ordinary mission, no ordinary accomplishment. This is the day we celebrate the Annunciation, of the Alpha and the Omega, First and Last, Beginning and ending, the Word of God made flesh, the Only begotton Son of God and Mary, for the salvation of the world.

Rejoice ever Virgin Bride.