We are celebrating the beautiful feast of the Annunciation of our Lord’s birth to the Blessed Virgin Mary which recalls how she was being asked to Mother the One and only Begotten Son of God the Father who sends Him forth, humble like a Lamb, God from God, Light from Light, to fulfil the plan of salvation. A week or so ago we heard him say from the cross, through his bruised, battered, and crucified body: Father, “it is accomplished” John 19:30. And then bowing his head: “Father, into thy hands I commend my spirit” Luke 23:46. The Word that came down like lifegiving rain to give life to the earth which would not return to the Father without first having fulfilled what it was sent out to accomplish (Isaiah 55:11). Thank-you Jesus!