The Annunciation is the event in which the Archangel Gabriel presents himself to the Blessed Virgin Mary and announces to her that she has been chosen by God to be the mother of His only begotten Son, Jesus (The Incarnation). Mary was in the process of becoming the wife of Joseph, a righteous and holy man. This was not an ordinary marriage, as Mary was a consecrated Virgin to God. Mary is aware that her relationship with Joseph is not one that will produce children, and this is evident in her response to Gabriel as she asks him, “How will this be done, because I know not man?” (Luke 1:34) Joseph was specifically chosen to protect this virginity, so that it would be guarded for life. Gabriel responds that it will be by the power of God through the Holy Spirit that she will conceive the child. To the eternal joy of humanity, Mary gives her consent to God’s plan in the greatest act of humility and obedience saying, “Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord. Let it be to me according to your word.” (Luke 1:38) This all occurred to fulfill the prophecy, “Behold, a virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and his name shall be called Emmanuel,” which means, God with us. (Matthew 1:23)
Luke 1:26–27 – Gabriel is sent to Nazareth to a virgin named Mary.
Luke 1:28–33 – Gabriel greets Mary and announces she will bear a son named Jesus.
Luke 1:34–37 – Mary asks how this will happen; Gabriel explains it will be by the Holy Spirit.
Luke 1:38 – Mary responds with her famous words of acceptance: “Let it be to me according to your word.”
Holy Rosary: The Annunciation is the 1st Joyful Mystery in the Holy Rosary. The virtue associated with meditating upon these events is humility. This reflects the humility of The Blessed Virgin in consenting to God’s plan without reserve. May we all grow in humility as we participate in this mystery.
Illustration by: Colton Rompala