The perplexity of Gabriel; Angels: Day 172

We find it easy to imagine how amazed Mary was by the Annunciation. But what was Gabriel thinking? St. Gregory, known as the Wonder-Worker,  imag– ines Gabriel’s  perplexity when he’s given his assignment. The mystery  of  the Incarnation is as baffling to archangels as it is to humans (1 Peter 1:12).

“Speak in the ears of my rational Ark” (God said to Gabriel), “to prepare a way for me in her hearing. But do not disturb or trouble the soul of the Virgin. Show yourself in a way befitting that sanctuary, and greet her first with the voice of gladness. Address Mary with this salutation: ‘Hail, O favored one,’ so that I may show compassion for Eve in her fall.”

The archangel heard these things, and thought them over—which was only reasonable. “This is a strange thing,” he thought. “What has just been said is beyond comprehension. He who is dreaded by the Cherubim, he who cannot be looked on by the Seraphim, he who is incomprehensible to all the heavenly pow- ers—is he saying that he will be connected this way with a virgin? Is he announc- ing that he will come in person? And more, does he make himself available to her hearing? Is he who condemned Eve eager to give Eve’s daughter such honor? For he says, ‘to prepare a way for me in her hearing.’ Can the womb contain him who cannot be contained in space? This is certainly a fearful mystery.”–St. Gregory Thaumaturgus (Wonder-Worker), Homily 3

IN GOD’S PRESENCE, CONSIDER . . .

When I see the Incarnation from Gabriel’s point of view, does it give me a fresh appreciation for the magnitude of God’s grace?

CLOSING PRAYER

Let me join my prayer to the prayers of Gabriel and all the angels who ministered to the Son in Heaven. They  saw him on earth when he was serving us, washing our feet, cleansing our souls. Blessed be his lowliness!

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