Reflection on the Parable of the Talents
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“How can this be…?” Luke 1:34.
The world has seen many pivotal moments which packed a mighty, resounding punch. One of those impactful events involved the collaboration between Heaven and Earth to make way for the Messiah’s arrival–when Mary gave her powerful fiat.
How many times have we encountered “angels” while going about our daily duties or heard God’s voice above the distractions that surround us? What would we do? How would we feel at that very second? Would we run towards the prospect of submitting ourselves to the will of the Father…or overthink the decision and ultimately run away?
Indeed, Mary’s response to Gabriel gives us the perfect example of obedience to God’s call. At the same time, we might see a little bit of us in her initial reaction to the archangel’s appearance which prompted his reassurance to her. “Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God.” (Luke 1:30). Although we’re not given the minute details in Luke’s account, we can imagine that the sudden arrival of an archangel might spark a feeling of surprise, curiosity, or even fear.
Think about a time when you experienced something that didn’t quite fit into your ordinary day and gave you a nudge that you couldn’t quite shake. How did you react at first? Were you feeling some degree of anxiety at the thought of future plans being altered? Or were you excited about the idea of embarking on a new adventure? Whether or not we face it head on or try to hide behind our existing routine, God always reassures us of His presence just as Gabriel reassured Mary that God would provide everything that she would need.
From there, the archangel offers more encouragement to Mary by giving her all the vital details—not because she doubted but because she had a genuine desire to know the wonders that God was going to bring about. Remember, she too had been awaiting the arrival of the Messiah even if she didn’t know that she would be chosen by God. “How can this be?” she pondered (Luke 1:34). And Gabriel’s joyful news regarding the Holy Spirit’s role and then about Elizabeth’s miraculous pregnancy in her advanced age gave Mary all the motivation and inspiration that she needed.
Just the same, we can follow Mary’s example and humbly receive God’s plan when He speaks to our hearts and from there, wait in joyful anticipation for the details of His miraculous plan. So when you ask the Lord, “how can this be,” get ready for the phenomenal wonders that He is about to work within you and through you.
Leslie Anderson, a cradle Catholic, has worn many hats (literally and figuratively) in her professional and personal life and in her service to the Church. Formerly a teacher and now a freelance writer and editor, Leslie has been writing articles for different online publications and web content for various businesses. However, she felt compelled by the Holy Spirit to shift directions and focus her efforts toward spreading the faith. When Leslie isn't writing, she and her husband love spending time with their family and volunteering with pro-life organizations in their community. She also remains active in her local parish.
