In the history of humanity, there have been many kings, queens and rulers who were in power and made an impact in our history. Their power and authority enabled them to be in control. Often, they maintained their control and power through their armies and even with the use of violence.

In contrast, today the Church honours a queen who was "helpless" in different situations: after she had delivered her child, she fled to Egypt with her child for the safety of her child; when her son was twelve, she lost him, and she searched for him; and most of all when her son, Jesus, journeyed through His passion and ultimate death, she accompanied him. In all these situations, she was helpless.

Mary's "Yes" and total trust in God earned her the queenship. Her "Yes" was not only in the event of the annunciation but rather a lifelong "Yes", lived out daily with humility and total self-giving.

We too, as a priestly, prophetic and kingly people are called to say 'Yes' to the Lord in the various situations in life we find ourselves in. Only then will we truly be living out our call to follow the King of Heaven and bring light to a 'people walking in darkness'. As we journey in the Kingdom of God, may we be instruments of love, justice and peace.