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March 25th is the celebration of the Annunciation. On this day, we remember the angel coming to Mary with the words, “Be not afraid.” By most accounts, Mary had many reasons to be afraid. But by the grace of God, Mary obeys the angel’s command. She does not fear. Instead, she sing a song of hope and joy – a song that continues to inspire us today.
In this time of Lent, as Easter approaches, pause and reflect: What are you afraid of today? What events seem too heavy to endure? What hope seems too hard to believe?
Perhaps what we learn most from Mary’s song is that no matter how frightening things around us might be, God is great and looks upon us with favor. We are loved. We are called to love. Even when it seems impossible that things are going to work out for love, God promises it will be so. Love will win.
This message is excerpted from “Be not afraid!” by Jennifer Hockenbery in the March/April/May 2025 Gather magazine. Today is the Annunciation of Our Lord.