December 14, 2006
If I was to ask what a two-year-old’s favorite word is, most, if not all of us would answer: “No!”
“No!” Any one of us can picture a toddler exclaiming this to Mom or Dad because he doesn’t want to eat his vegetables or pick up his toys. He may say “no” for a variety of reasons, but there is one reason behind them all – he wishes to assert his independence.
We all were that toddler once. And while we have grown out of childish temper tantrums, is it not true that all too often a part of us still assumes an attitude of independence? When it comes to doing God’s will, do we prefer our own instead? In fact, with every sin we say “no” to God. How easy it can be, as weak human beings, to do so!
Yet, there is one extraordinary human being who never said “no” to the Lord. On earth, Our Blessed Mother lived in conformity with God’s will, having the courage and humility to say “yes” to Him. So she was given the gift of becoming the Mother of God, and now she is crowned with a glorious crown in heaven.
When I think how easy it is to say “no,” I realize how amazing Mary’s “fiat” was. She gives us a beautiful example of a life given to God, surrendered to His will, and trusting in His promise. This Advent, let us call upon Our Lady to help us follow her example and to become faithful, obedient, and loving children of God the Father and disciples of her Son.
Sr. Cecelia Jesse, CFR
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