“. . . and she conceived of the Holy Spirit.”
The Spirit is intimately present within the Angelus. The readings from the Second Sunday of Advent make the reason for that presence even more obvious.
The Holy Spirit comes upon Mary and God himself is conceived. Jesus comes into the world and the Spirit become present among us as well.
In the first reading today we hear that familiar passage about the Spirit of the Lord resting upon the Messiah, the descendant of David. We hear about the traditional gifts of the Spirit, so often the focus of our Confirmation preparation today.
The spirit of the LORD shall rest upon him:
a spirit of wisdom and of understanding,
a spirit of counsel and of strength,
a spirit of knowledge and of fear of the LORD,
and his delight shall be the fear of the LORD.Isaiah 11:2-3
It is that same Spirit, in union with Christ, with which John the Baptist promises that Jesus will bring to his people.
So, what does this have to do with the Angelus?
In the Angelus we repeat and remember that God is present among us. His flesh may have ascended into heaven, but he remains present here among us through the Spirit with which he baptizes us. Through the Spirit, God’s grace is poured forth into our hearts.
May we, this Advent, recognize the Spirit of God dwelling among us. May we share in the gifts of the Spirit.
Lord, grant us wisdom so that we may discover your Truth.
Lord, grant us understanding so that we may be patience with others this holiday season.
Lord, grant us counsel so that we may provide sound advice to those who need it.
Lord, grant us the strength and courage to do only what is good.
Lord, grant us knowledge to teach others your ways.
Lord, grant us the fear of your goodness so that we may live with piety and humility in your name.
Mary, Mother of God, who conceived of the Holy Spirit, pray for us!
