It can be easy to question our identity and priorities in moments of fear and uncertainty. Those moments may tempt us to turn back to our addictions, compulsions, or unhealthy attachments. The weight of the unknown can make it scary to surrender to God. However, we have glorious good news: the power of the Holy Spirit through the sacraments of the Catholic Church is available to strengthen and sanctify us! Because God has already graced us with the theological virtues of faith, hope, and charity through our baptism, the “feeling” of trust in the midst of our fears is not a requirement. 

We can make an act of the will to surrender to God’s will because we know God has providentially given us the virtue of faith even if we don’t feel close to Him at times. When we do this, the power of the Holy Spirit overshadows us just as He did with Mary. Incredibly, God has given us the unique privilege and dignity of participating in His divinity, and we can do this now by engaging in the sacraments (especially Reconciliation and the Eucharist), which activate the God-given virtues of faith, hope, and charity in our lives. While we may introduce ourselves with our names and what qualifies us in recovery meetings, we are to remember our primary identity as beloved sons and daughters of God. This is why Mary is a perfect model for us since she knew the truth of her identity as God’s beloved daughter and fully surrendered herself to be His humble servant.

Reflection Questions

• How do you live out your identity as God’s son or daughter in your life? What helps you to trust God more and surrender to His will?
• What specific resources aid you in discerning God’s will for your life and how might you make better use of them this Advent?

Daily Mass Readings

First Reading: Isaiah 7:10-14
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 24:1-2, 3-4ab, 5-6
Gospel: Luke 1:26-38

Reflection by Stephanie N.