Mary’s Fiat and Ours

     In a reflection on Mary’s fiat, Fr. James Martin S.J. states that “the feast has tremendous significance because it marks the very starting point of the incarnation.” I also think that its significance is reflected in the fact that it is celebrated daily around the world every time someone prays a Hail Mary or 53 of them while praying the rosary that recalls the Annunciation and all the mysteries in the life of Mary and her Son.  

     I found it delightful reflecting on today’s Gospel reading as I pondered how the call of God is reflected in the events of each one’s life. “Hail Mary, full of grace! The Lord is with you.” We. too, know that God is with each of us.

     My reflection on this feast reminded me that God has a plan for every life and reveals it in some way. I became aware of this when my father died of a massive heart attack when he was 41 and I was 13. I immediately quit all my lessons in tap, toe, acrobats, ballet, drama and piano. My study to become a professional entertainer died the moment Dad died.

    I believe the Spirit fell upon my 8^th grade teacher, Sr. Rita Kettman, O.S.B. when she heard that I was going to Holmes High School, and she called to tell me that she could arrange for me to go to Holy Cross High School for Parish tuition-- $3.00 per month. “Yes, we could afford that.”

     I loved all the Benedictine sisters who taught me in elementary school, and working so closely with them on school projects in high school, I loved and admired them all the more. In my junior year. the Spirit led me to consider a vocation to religious life and soon I knew that God was calling me, and I was sure. I praise God that now at 91 yrs. old, I am still very sure of my vocation.

     When reading Scripture stories and reflecting on how elements apply to my life, I am sometimes overwhelmed in the ways God has entered my life. On this feast I pray with Mary, “My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices with God my Savior.”

    Sr. Victoria Eisenman, OSB