Day Eighteen: Solemnity of the Annunciation of the Lord
Tuesday, March 25, 2025

Scripture Passage
“Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord. May it be done to me according to your word.” (Luke 1:38)

Opening Reflection
The Annunciation is a moment of divine invitation and human response. The angel Gabriel’s message to Mary reveals God’s extraordinary plan for salvation. Mary, though troubled by the angel’s words, responds with total trust: “Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord.” Her fiat her “yes” changes the course of history. In this moment, God enters fully into our world, taking on flesh in the womb of the Virgin.

Meditative Reflection
Mary’s response teaches us the essence of faith: surrender to God’s will. She did not have all the answers, yet she trusted completely. This trust was not passive; it required courage, sacrifice, and unwavering belief in God’s promises. The same invitation is given to us daily God calls us to trust in His plan, even when it is beyond our understanding.

The Annunciation also highlights God’s immense humility. The Creator of the universe chose to enter the world not with power and might, but through a hidden, quiet act of love. Mary’s womb became the first dwelling place of Christ on earth, just as our hearts are called to be His dwelling place today.

Reflection Questions
Do I trust God’s plan for my life, even when it challenges my expectations? How can I imitate Mary’s humility and openness to His will? Where is God inviting me to say “yes” to Him today?

Lenten Question
Q: Why is Mary’s ‘yes’ so important in salvation history?
A: Mary’s fiat allowed God’s plan of redemption to unfold. Her obedience and trust in God made her the Mother of Jesus, who came to save humanity. She is the new Eve, whose faithfulness undoes the disobedience of the first Eve.

Lenten Action
Pray the Angelus today, reflecting on Mary’s response to God. Offer your own “yes” to God in a specific area of your life where you struggle to trust Him.

Concluding Prayer
Heavenly Father, like Mary, may I have the faith to say “yes” to Your will. Give me the grace to trust You completely, even when the path is unclear. May my heart become a dwelling place for Christ, and may my life reflect Your love to the world. Amen.

Resources for Lenten Prayers and Reflections:

Daily Saints and Reflections | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/

Lenten Reflections | EWTN | https://www.ewtn.com/catholicism/reflections/lent

Lenten Prayers and Daily Reflections | My Catholic Life | https://mycatholic.life/lent-prayers-reflections/