Today we celebrate the Immaculate Conception: through God's grace, Mary was conceived free from the stain of original sin in her mother's womb. This grace was to prepare Mary, even before she was born, and make her suitably pure for her role as the mother of Jesus Christ.

The readings reveal more about Mary's role. In Genesis, we see that Adam and Eve disobey God - original sin. This sin has consequences for generations to come: distance from God, pain, conflict and fear in daily life. Yet God has a plan. God has chosen us to be holy sons and daughters even before we were born (Eph 1:4-5). Although original sin seems to thwart this plan, God will succeed.

When the angel appears to Mary, we see how she humbly surrenders to God's desire for her life: "Here am I, the servant of the Lord; let it be with me according to your word" (Lk 1:38). In contrast to Eve, Mary uses her freedom to trust deeply in God.

This trust in God has consequences: Jesus is born. Jesus grows up and reveals the depth of God's love. Through His cross and resurrection, Jesus saves us from the eternal effects of sin.