Story: A husband asked his wife, "Why would God give the wise men a star to guide them?" She replied, "Because God knows men are too proud to ask directions."
"When the song of the angels is stilled, when the star in the sky is gone, when the kings and princes are home, when the shepherds are back with their flocks, the work of Christmas begins: to find the lost, heal the broken, feed the hungry, rebuild the nations, bring peace among people, make music in the heart." So wrote Howard Thurman.
Greeting (See second Reading) God sent his Son, born of a woman, to enable us to become God's children. Through the Spirit of the Son we can cry out to God: "Father, my Father!" May Jesus, this Son, be always with you. R/ And also with you.
Greeting (see Second Reading) Glory to God who is able to give you the strength to live according to the Good News about Jesus Christ, the Son of God. This Good News is now proclaimed to all. May you accept this Good News and may the Lord Jesus be always with you. R/ And also with you.
TK Notes: A. Any one who is into counseling knows that people come to you because of some anxiety or fear they face in life due to a) a relationship, b) a decision/choice or c) faith/ideology issue. They are all trying to find a way to cope with that situation. Mary too comes with, "How's this possible?"
B. Essentially, a counselor helps the counselee to cope with or face or remove that anxiety/fear.
a. Theologically: explains the meaning/purpose of the experience: The Holy Spirit will come down on you. You are going to conceive a child who will be Emmanuel. He is going to save Israel.
b. Sociologically: I'll be with you; I'll accompany you. Even your cousin Elizabeth....
c. Psychologically: Do not be afraid, Mary .....
We touch the heart by addressing the mind/ spirit and providing support.
C. If that's so, "Behold the handmaid of the Lord." Acceptance, conquering the fear and doubt.
People undertake difficult tasks and responsibilities in life if you follow these steps.
We move from "How's it possible?" to "Behold the handmaiden of the Lord" when God enters into our life.
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