The greatest change history has ever seen is when the Son of God was entrusted to the care of the Virgin Mary. From that point on, from that very instant of conception through the Holy Spirit, Mary’s life and all life has changed forever. Jesus in the womb of Mary has altered the landscape of reality and transformed it into a new and different mosaic, adding and beautifying the world and all its wonders. The prophet Baruch so eloquently announced the upcoming splendor, “For God will show all the earth your splendor: you will be named by God forever.”
Initially, the splendor was kept under cover, shrouded from the eyes of those less connected, but revealed in the hearts of those who see and understand, knowing full well the babe in the immaculate womb is God himself.
Quietly the new life is preparing for a grand entrance and introduced later by St. John the Baptist, “A herald’s voice in the desert, crying, ‘Make ready the way of the Lord, clear him a straight path.”
The voice echoing in the desert two thousand years ago, is still audible today. For those who hear the voice it may be heard with some apprehension and uncertainty. For others, the voice is ignored and disregarded. But for those who have always been open to life, the voice is gentle and welcoming urging a deeper union with God producing a glory of life, with all its wonders and surprises. A voice having the possibility of dramatically changing lives, even if there remains a grain of disbelief. But even though there may be doubts, these doubts are tempered by the fact God’s promises never disappoint. The immensity of the change is not immediately noticed, it does take some time to develop.
When life continues to grow there will be expected changes and they begin to emerge. Normal routines once cut in stone begin to change. What was motivating before seem to have little or no power they once had. The voice in the desert takes on a greater meaning, a greater urgency. Past life is reviewed, with a will to change those areas which previously brought confusion and destruction.
During the time of change, the ramifications become crystal clear. Questions may be asked; Will I be able to continue to nurture this new life? Will I make enough room to let this life take root and grow to maturity? Can I accept the fact that some around me may think I am crazy? When do I tell those who seemingly know me so well that I am not the person I was before? These are some of the questions that continue to be in the mind and heart of those who will bear new life. But although those questions exist, the overriding notion is that this new life in us will bring us to answer those questions affirmatively always with the help of God, and reaffirmed by St. Paul:
“I am sure of this much: That he who has begun the good work in you Will carry it through to completion, Right up to the day of Christ Jesus.”