“In the midst of this season of sorrow and repentance we are presented with the hope of the Annunciation. It is in Mary’s fiat to the Incarnation, “Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord. May it be done to me according to your word” (Lk. 1:38), that we receive Jesus’ fiat to the cross, “Father, if you are willing, take this cup away from me; still, not my will but yours be done” (Lk. 22:42).
I would argue that the lens with which we pray the Annunciation, especially during this Lenten season, we are equipped more fully to enter into Holy Week next week. It is not about mere submission; rather, it is about entering into God’s love with a response of love. In the words of one of my theological heroes, Pope Benedict XVI, it affirmed: “Mary’s yes to God was not just an act of submission, but an act of profound trust and love.”
Mary’s response models for us the lifelong journey of saying yes to God, daily; not only when it is easy or convenient. Our “yes” begins at conception and ends at death. As we fast and practice self-denial this Lent, it is worth asking: What are we making room for? What is our “yes” forming within us, and how is it shaping our relationship with the Lord?” — Headmaster Eric Schreiber
St. John Paul II Classical School and Chesterton Academy are of the Green Bay Area Catholic Education (GRACE) School System. They are private Catholic classical schools serving Montessori preschool and elementary through high school. They have open enrollment and provide an individualized education in an integrated faith-based environment. Each child is supported not only academically, but spiritually. Learn more by scheduling a visit.
