In this week's Gospel, we hear about the angel Gabriel appearing to Mary and telling her she would bear a son. We are told, "she was greatly troubled." But the angel Gabriel tells her, "Do not be afraid" and "The Holy Spirit will come upon you." These words of promise are spoken loudly and clearly, yet gently, to Mary and she faithfully and wholeheartedly responded, "May it be done to me according to your word."

Wow! What a beautiful scripture this is, especially for young adults of the Church. If an angel came to me and told me that I would bear a son, by the grace of the Holy Spirit, I would be frightened. I would be scared and I would most likely try to run away! But Mary was open, she recognized this call from God to be the mother of the Savior of the World, and she accepted it with a faithful "yes." What courage!

Have you had moments when you were "greatly troubled" with something you did not understand? Where was God in that situation? When was the last time you reached out to God when you were afraid or seeking courage?

In this time of Advent, we, too, are called to "new life" and to have the same openness to seek God's will for our lives, and taking that a step further, to respond with a joyful "yes." Of course, it may not be that easy and it is certainly a process, but celebration and "new life" await us.

On countless occasions at the Cathedral here in Baguio City, Philippines, the priests emphasize that Advent is an ideal season in our liturgical year to receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation, especially if it has been a while since we last received this sacrament. Reconciliation used to make me incredibly nervous and I would usually feel extremely uneasy during the process. Now, I have come to understand and accept what a beautiful gift Reconciliation is! It is God's unending love. It is God's understanding. It is a time for us to be honest with ourselves. In a sense, the reward is new life, and an invitation to once again say "yes"to God.

During this season of Advent, how do you feel God has been calling you to grow deeper in your relationship with Him? What have been some of the challenges with this call?  

Just like the angel Gabriel did not force Mary to accept this call from God, neither will God force us to accept the "new life" that he wants to renew in us. But when we can take some time to reflect and contemplate on the ways that God is calling us in our lives to something greater, the Holy Spirit will certainly be upon each one of us, and in faith we may be reminded, "nothing will be impossible for God."  

As we go through Advent, this time of waiting and holy preparation of our minds and hearts for the coming of Jesus Christ, I am reminded that soon, we will joyfully celebrate! We once again celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ in our midst, and at the same time, we too, are invited and called to participate in this new life with Jesus. Of course, that will look different for each one of us. How will it look for you?

Crystal Catalan is currently serving in her third year as a missioner with Cabrini Mission Corps in Baguio City, Philippines, her first year having served in New York, NY. Crystal is originally from Laguna Niguel, California and graduated from the University of San Diego with a BA in Communication Studies. Crystal provides reflections and updates regarding her mission on her blog: http://missionofgrace.blogspot.com

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