Sunday, December 7

Sunday, December 7
Second Week of Advent
Peace

Ave Maria, gratia plena, Dominus tecum. Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with you.

For all the dramatic movements in this music, the words to the hymn “Ave Maria” simply repeat the lines of the well-known Hail Mary prayer. The melody soars with a sense of longing that builds and recedes—it feels full, like breathing deeply in front of a grand landscape. It makes us want to linger, as if there is too much to relish here. If we can slow down enough to let this hymn echo within us, we can touch a bit of the fullness that marked Mary’s life. God filled her with grace so that she would be ready to bear Jesus to the world, and wants to fill us with grace as well.

Prayer for Morning
Mary, you were practiced at receiving gifts from God. Help me follow your example: to let go of fear and create room where Jesus can dwell within me. Mother Mary, help me follow your receptive faithfulness.

Ponder Today
When will I encounter moments of fullness today—especially in the ordinary—and how can I lift my heart to God in response?

Prayer for Evening
Holy Mary, your life was built around prayer. You knew how to hear and respond to God’s voice, how to find peace in his will for your life. Pray for me, that I may cultivate that same intimacy with God. Mother Mary, help me follow your steady faithfulness.