The Feast of the Annunciation, observed just yesterday, offers a profound moment of reflection within our Lenten journey. Lent calls us to fasting, prayer, and penance, yet the Annunciation reminds us of the hope embedded in our sacrifices. The Annunciation marks the inception of Christ’s earthly life, foreshadowing the redemption he brings through his Passion. Just as Mary’s faithful “yes” ushered in salvation, we, too, are called to embody God’s promise of love in the world through our choices.

How might our Lenten disciplines prepare us to be living signs of sacrifice for that love, welcoming Christ into the most intimate parts of our hearts?

_{^{Image Credit: Giorgio Vasari, (Italian, 1511-1574) Annunciation, ca. 1540’s, Oil on panel, Raclin Murphy Museum of Art, University of Notre Dame. Gift of Charles A. Wightman, 1924.001.079.}}