Tues., Dec. 8: Gen 3:9-15, 20; Eph 1:3-6, 11-12; Luke 1:26-38

May it be done to me according to your word. Mary the Christbearer is the model for us as Christ-bearers to the world. Whereas she was predisposed to accept God’s plan for her, we struggle — both with knowing that plan and acceding to it. We rarely find ourselves with such a ready "Yes." We add a codicil: "May it be done to me according to your word … as long as your word doesn’t stretch me too much." Pray today for the United States, who claims Mary Immaculate as patron.

*For United States citizens, those who seek refuge within its borders, those who look to the States for justice and those who fear U.S. intervention … for Mary’s protection and guidance, we pray.