How long, O Lord?
Dr Di Rayson captures our collective weariness and longing as we begin our Advent journey in 2020.
On the twentieth day of Advent, 2020, Qwayne Guevara reflects on certainty and trust.
Her cooperative “Yes”
And Mary said:
“My soul glorifies the Lord
and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior,
for he has been mindful
of the humble state of his servant.
From now on all generations will call me blessed,
for the Mighty One has done great things for me—
holy is his name.
His mercy extends to those who fear him,
from generation to generation.
He has performed mighty deeds with his arm;
he has scattered those who are proud in their inmost thoughts.
He has brought down rulers from their thrones
but has lifted up the humble.
He has filled the hungry with good things
but has sent the rich away empty.
He has helped his servant Israel,
remembering to be merciful
to Abraham and his descendants forever,
just as he promised our ancestors.”Luke 1:46b-55
Perhaps it seems rather strange for us to proclaim His goodness after the crazy year that we’ve had. Personally, I’ve avoided acknowledging how much this pandemic has affected me. However, truth be told, it has seeped into practically every area of my life: my work in ministry, the projects I coordinate, my relationships and especially my relationship with God.
With the uncertainty brought about by the pandemic and being under restrictions, I tried to look at the bright side. I thought I could try to pick up a new hobby, give TikTok a shot, complete projects I’ve left behind and maybe even revamp my room. The pandemic continued and by the third month in I could feel my positivity slip away. I started to cling to any sense of normality in my life. Before I knew it, I was just going through the motions. I had lost hope that things would get better.
I thought that if I waited long enough everything would settle. How do we begin to be open to finding meaning in all this? The Gospel for today sheds some light. We can look to Mary. I’m struck by her surrender in her Magnificat, her courage and trust. Mary had no idea what was to come but she knew life would never be the same. It would be uncertain and in no way would it be normal. Yet recognising this, she cooperated with God with her mighty “Yes!”. Her trusting response paved the way for salvation for all.
Her cooperative “Yes” is an encouragement for us today. Amid all the chaos, may we follow Mary’s example with grace, humility and hope, entering each day with confidence that God will never abandon us, that He has a plan and will fulfil His promises in beautiful and often unexpected ways...even during a pandemic.
Qwayne Guevara is the Local Engagement Leader at Catholic Youth Parramatta, Diocese of Parramatta. She is co-founder of Young Lions Café and The Hustle in Western Sydney.
