Pondering Leads to the Wonders in Life

Gospel Thoughts

*Lenten Season : C Cycle : 2nd Week - Friday*

*Solemnity of the Annunciation of the Lord*

*GOSPEL -  Lk 1:26-38*

*FIRST READING Is 7:10-14; 8:10*

*SECOND READING - Heb 10:4-10*

*Pondering Leads to the Wonders in Life*

*1) What is pondering*

The word pondering comes in today's Gospel. 

When Angel Gabriel greeted Mary she was troubled at the Greeting of the Angel, but at the same time, She pondered about the greetings and its relevance

Pondering means *think about (something) carefully, especially before making a decision or reaching a conclusion*

This what Mary did by pondering on the greetings of the Angel 

*2) Mary Starts the conversation after pondering*

The Gospel clearly shows us that, Mary began her conversation after pondering on the greetings of the Angel.

This means, Mary reflected well about the plan of God, in order to make a right and wise decision 

Mary's pondering appears as a foundation for her decision which will help her, in making a right choice 

*3) The Result of pondering*

First of all she was able to enter into the conversation with the Angel 

Secondly she was able to clarify her doubts with the Angel 

Thirdly she was able to see the greatness of Gods plan of salvation

Fourthly she was able to understand her role in the plan of salvation and the need of God for a woman to carry out the plan 

Finally she was able to accept the will of God and offered herself to the service of God. 

*4) The Wonders of Pondering*

Mary Because a great person in the History

She became the Mother of God

She got a chance to give birth to the Son of God, conceived through the power of the Holy Spirit 

She became a first tabernacle in the World. 

Finally she became the Mother of the Church and the Mother of entire human race 

*5) Am I ready to ponder?*

Like Mary at times we are troubled with many things. What would be our response at that time? 

In fact we need to ponder every situation of our life, in order to choose the right thing in life 

One who ponders makes a right decision and succeeds in life 

*6)Various things which help us in pondering*

Prayer

Meditation on the word of God 

Spending time in silence 

Reading of the Word of God 

Celebration of the Sacraments especially the Eucharist and reconciliation

*7) Lent is a special time for pondering*

A special time for pondering the passion of Christ

A special time to ponder on the importance of conversion of our life 

Time to ponder on the need and necessity of love, service, sacrifice, humility, simplicity, forgiveness, prayer etc 

*So am I ready to ponder on the above mentioned values?*

*Think about it*

*God bless you and your family. Praying for you and your dear ones*

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*