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 8th 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
