Amidst final exams, end of semester commitments, and advent preparations that have consumed students over the past few weeks, it is easy to feel overwhelmed during this time of the year. As we constantly feel as though there is a clock counting down the time we have to complete our endless amount of work, our temptation to say “no” when God and others call on us is greater than ever.

However, the light of the candles on the Advent wreath every Sunday remind us of many things, including all the times Mary chose to say “yes” to God’s call, even when she might have felt overwhelmed by all He was asking of her.

As we read in today's Gospel, the angel Gabriel was sent by God to tell Mary that she would conceive His son, to which Mary responded, “Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord. May it be done to me according to your word." Although Mary must have felt overwhelmed in this moment, it is impossible imagine what would have happened if Mary had not said “yes” to the most important question God has ever asked.

As we near Christmas and continue to be faced with questions that call on us to say “yes” in order to strengthen ourselves and our faith in God, let us ask ourselves in these moments - what would Mary do? While acing a final exam might seem like a life or death situation in the moment, we must remember that this feeling could not be further from the truth. In ten years, will this exam matter? If your answer is no, as I hope it is, then is important to remember to make time during this Advent season to say “yes” to what will matter in ten years - your relationships with God, friends, and family.