The Courage to Say Yes

   “Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord.  May it be done to me according to your word.” (Luke 1: 38)

   Our Blessed Mother didn’t understand how she could become the mother of our Lord Jesus.  She was a virgin, having never known man.  When the Archangel Gabriel explained how such a thing could happen, she willingly accepted God’s will.  She said “Yes.”

   He calls us to do His will throughout our lives.  Sadly, we say no far too often.  St. Augustine struggled in saying yes to God.  In his autobiography Confessions he wrote that he would pray, “Lord, make me chaste – but not yet.”  Saying yes can be difficult and many never have the courage to say yes to God’s will in their life.

   Has God asked you to become more active in His Church; participate more at Mass; give more of your time, talent, and treasure?  Has he suggested that the movies and television shows you watch, the music you listen to, or the books you read are not proper feeding of your soul?  Has He asked you to study His word and learn more about His ways?

   Has He asked that you struggle to repair the difficulties in your marriage rather than choose divorce, trusting that with God all things can be made right?  Do you look to God for guidance when you choose who you will vote for?  Are your friends helping you say "Yes" or "No" to God.  Do you speak up for God’s ways even if it means offending those who reject Him, or do you simply remain silent?

   We have the choice each day to say “Yes” to God.  Sometimes it can be hard, but God will always support us when we support Him.  When this life is over, and Jesus tallies up the yeses and noes of our life will He be able to say “Yes” and admit us into His kingdom?

There are many ways to serve You Lord.

Many ways to do Your will.

Give us courage and faith.

Give us the strength to say “Yes”.

Amen