The Archangel Gabriel brings a request from the Father to the handmaid of Nazareth. “You are to conceive and bear a son.” Mary was prepared in the Will of the Father long before for her part in the salvation of man; the Holy Spirit came upon her from the moment of her conception, yet even so, her response to the angel’s message was the free act of a soul which joyfully, yet with trepidation gives itself to the will of her creator: “I am the handmaid of the Lord, said Mary, “let it be to me according to your word.”

The following out of that vocation has bought Mary now to this last and most painful meeting with her Son. Though she is filled with grace and has all that is needful to meet this moment, only her faith can sustain her in the conviction that the Will of the Father - which is always good in its effect and intent for us - should have brought her Son to this: and should in this moment have brought her to her Son. Here is nothing but the sword of grief passing through her soul. But she once spoke with an angel: and though she is full of grief she remains full of grace; and her faith does not fail.

Lord you never ask us to face anything for which you have not equipped us with the necessary grace. When we are tempted to despair reveal to us again the fullness of your grace in our souls, and keep us firm in the conviction of our faith in you.