Our Bishop, Christian Riesbeck, has sent out his most welcome Christmas letter to us and all the people of the Diocese. He, too, has experienced all of the limitations imposed on us by the pandemic. His thoughts and concerns are directed towards the rest of us and he offers a message that is hopeful and forward looking. He is especially mindful of people who have been away from their parishes or from the church for awhile and encourages us to be especially kind and welcoming to them.
In the gospel today, Mary receives the most wonderful news from God. She is to bring God’s Son into the world. He asks her to cooperate with Him in His plan for salvation. In that moment she is isolated, socially distant from family and friends. Only an angelic messenger is there to confirm this invitation from God. This faithful daughter of Israel responds completely and freely. She might not have known or understood all the details or the cost but she responded with an overwhelming YES!
This Christmas offers a chance to make Jesus present in the lives of those who are distant from Him. With our Bishop we look to Mary to teach us how to say YES!