The Unexpected Pregnancy

When I was a young woman, a friend of mine found herself pregnant very early in a new relationship. She was still in college and this unexpected call to motherhood rocked her world. Many tears were shed as her pregnancy news was processed and accepted.

At first, a profound heaviness developed around the impending birth as family members and friends took sides on what they thought the young couple should do. Sadly, more gossip and arguments happened around the situation, then prayer.

His Coming is Good News

Eventually, as the child’s birth drew near, the fear, doubts, and worry were eclipsed by an emerging joy and hope, “whatever clouds lie in the child’s future, his coming is good news” (Gaze Upon Jesus, p. 11).  Of course, Sarah Christmyer was referring in that passage to the birth of Jesus, but these words resonated with what unfolded in my friend’s family as the anticipation grew for the coming of this new little life.

Sarah writes, “she [Mary] is troubled and puzzled, yet she does not doubt … her ‘yes’ opens a space within, where God then makes his home” (Gaze, p. 13).  

Allowing God to Make a Home in You

Mary’s ability to gaze at God with a humble heart led to her fiat — which illustrated her openness and willingness to trust God. This disposition of Mary’s heart made room for God to make a home in her. My friend’s decision to choose life opened a place in her heart for her child, and eventually, to a beautiful new life with Christ.

What yes will you offer this Advent that will prepare your heart to welcome God to make his home in you as well?

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Allison Gingras is the founder of ReconciledToYou.com – where she shares the beauty of the Catholic Faith with honesty, laughter, and relatable examples from everyday, ordinary life!  Her newest project is the Stay Connected Journals for Catholic Women (Gracewatch.Media/Connected) and includes her first book, The Gift of Invitation: 7 Ways Jesus Invites Us into a Life of Grace. Allison hosts A Seeking Heart with Allison Gingras on BreadboxMedia.com  Allison is a Social Media Consultant for Kennedy Brownrigg Group and Online Book Club Specialist with WINE: Women in the New Evangelization.